have come up with the idea for a Monday Morning Flash Fiction challenge. Each Monday a new picture prompt will be posted and if you choose to participate - you post your story on Friday.
And here is the fourth picture prompt:
And here is my story:
Farewell to the King
It had been years since the end of the Dragon Wars. Peace and prosperity reigned under the rule of King Oryck. He and his wife, Queen Annwyn, opened their hearts and their kingdom to any and all persons willing to work towards rebuilding what had been taken during those long years of war and rebellion.
The Silver Backs, almost extinct due to the wars, also found a place within King Oryck’s kingdom. The highly intelligent dragons offered their services to the King in exchange for the safety found along the shores of Glynnfael, where the rocky cliffs and craegs provided natural shelter.
Tailon, the oldest of the Silver Backs was King Oryck’s favorite. The two would spend hours talking about the wars and remembering both friend and foe with the recounting of tales.
But now that time has come to an end with the passing of King Oryck. Though a mighty soldier at one time, the years of peace had prosperity had taken a toll on the King. In the form of laugh lines, graying hair and a burgeoning belly.
Though he did not die a hero in battle - he was a hero none the less. Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate his life and mourn his passing.
Amid tears and farewells King Oryck was placed in his funeral pyre which was then set out to sea. Tailon flew high in the air and circled the boat several times before finally landing on a cliff far away from the mourners.
When the boat passed underneath him Tailon let loose with a fiery stream, instantly the boat was consumed.
King Oryck began a new journey.
The End
Word Count: 284
M
5 comments:
Lovely story Michelle. Sadness, but certainly not a dark tale :)
Michelle! You really do have a talent for these things. I LOVE how you always utilize the piture at the end of your stories!
Excellent job!
B,
This one was the hardest for me so far. I didn't want it to be dark. :)
Amy,
Thank you. :) I had to think about this one. My first couple of stories were violent. But I thought I would try to go in a different direction - and came up with this story. :)
M
Hi Michelle!
What a great story, the dragon foe turned friend helps the old king into the realm of Valhalla, where all warriors go at passing. Loved it Michelle!
Dottie :)
What an excellent interpretation of that photo, Michelle. Very well done!
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