Pirates (1st Place)

“All we found was the raft, a rotting corpse, and a book placed in a plastic bag,” Sebastian declared. He handed the bag up to Captain Thomas.

The Captain eyed the bag, opened it, and removed the small book. The ravages of weather had taken its toll on the cover, but the pages appeared to be in decent shape. He cracked open the book and began to read:

“I managed to get off the boat and stuff a few supplies – two jugs of fresh water, a few rations, and several odds and ends -- in my backpack. The storm was terrible as we tried to board the life raft together. After listing for about a day, the wave hit that finally capsized us. It swept my wife and daughter overboard. I am alone. My prize yacht gone.”

“I believe it’s Thursday now June 18th, 2009. I found the pen and this small book in my backpack. I write this as a last testament. I feel hopeless. My family is gone. I'm so weak from last night's storm that I've tied myself down."

“Guilt is riddling me. I have to confess to an occasional fleece of my clientele. Unfortunately, it got out of hand. I am so sorry. I’ve ruined their lives. I now know how it feels. My sobs are heard by no one. It rips at my soul."

"Madness is upon me. No water or food now. The sun is unrelenting. I fear this will be my last entry.”

The Captain read the last entry, closed the book, and sipped from his coffee cup. “Bring up the woman and child. They were telling the truth.”

“Aye, Captain.”

“Oh, and one more thing. Ask the lady how much she’d pay to keep her lifestyle. I have some interesting reading for her.”


300 Words
Flash Story Must contain: Fleece, Prize, Cup