The line is drawn. The prize ahead

Thorn was back at the beach he had been allowed to explore before!  Dad had come with him and they had walked a way down the beach to prepare for the greatest race Thorn had ever attempted.  The competitive spirit in Thorn demanded he would win though admittedly a logical part of his mind said he was crazy.  One moment in Thorn's mind he’d refuse to give up, another his mind tried to compromise with just not losing by much.

The castle was their destination, it was an easy landmark that there was no way to miss.  Trying to be helpful Thorn decided to draw a line in the sand to mark their starting spot.  Drawing a line in the sand was also kind of fun.  “First one to touch the castle wall wins!  If I win you have to take me to whatever is on the other side of the beach tomorrow.”  

Would dad agree to the terms?  It was worth the effort!  Dad did admittedly have a lot to do and Thorn realized he wasn’t the only child in their family who should get his attention.  However, that didn’t stop Thorn from wanting to steal some time that was just dad him.  He also wanted dad to take him somewhere new.  Thorn also just really wanted to win this race!  Adding the prize on to the end would only make Thorn want the victory all the more.

"Thorn Carpathius"