Last Dance (1st Place)

“Next!” The royal announcer proclaimed.

A beautiful young woman stepped forward. Her sweet smile shone from her face, as harp music began from behind a nearby curtain. She began to dance. The graceful movements of her feet and swooping waves of her arms mesmerized the king.

The music stopped, and the young brunette twisted to the floor and collapsed. The king arose from his throne and clapped. The court gave a polite round of applause.

Like a broken doll, she lay upon the floor, crumpled in her white dress. The king’s brow furrowed. “See what’s wrong.”

Seven guards surrounded her, holding spears, swords, and torches which added to the moon’s light. A swordsman poked her gently. “My lady. The king is pleased. You may arise now.”

Her motionless body lay upon the stone. A torch bearer touched the woman, and rocked her back and forth. The guard looked up at the king and shook his head.

The king’s face crinkled in despair. “Bring the harp player from behind the tapestry.”

A guard hurried to the large curtain and grabbed the arm of an old woman, and escorted her to the king.

“What is the meaning of this? Why did she die? She was so young and beautiful. Her dancing was full of life.”

“Yes. She came across the Ewanee bridge. Her people sent her. The war has been especially destructive to her village. Her family -- all dead.”

“Yes. The campaigns…”

“This is why she came. To show you what you have done.”

“What! Preposterous!”

“She was the most beautiful, graceful daughter of the townspeople. They gave her poison, and sent her here to dance and show you what beauty you have destroyed.”

The king bowed his head, and looked upon the body.

Peace came to the kingdom within a month.

300 Words
Flash Story Must contain: Bridge, Moon, Dance