Sacrifice

I give to you a story in eleventy-one words...

She grabbed him, slapped him. He stood, watching her.

‘You let our son die.’

There had been no other way, not if he wanted to remain the leader of the rebel faction.

‘You’re causing a scene,’ he spoke calmly.  ‘Let’s go home.’

‘I have no home, no comfort, no joy. Because of you!’

He moved closer and whispered, ‘It’s bigger than him, bigger than us. You know that.’

‘Maybe I don’t,’ she mumbled.

‘Please understand what you’re saying.’

She stared into his eyes, ‘I know exactly what I’m saying.’

He bowed his head; the argument was over.

‘I love you.’

‘I love you too.’

They hugged.

And he snapped her neck.

Showdown

I give to you a story in eleventy-one words...

The showdown had come.

He dismounted, left his horse, and rambled down the street. The town’s inhabitants cautiously followed, watching him intently. Not a word came from their respective mouths. Only the scuff of his boots could be heard.

He paused in front of the saloon and yelled, ‘Where is he?’ The tension was palpable, the silence a heavy fog.

‘Where is he?’ he shouted again.

A boy stepped forward and pointed. He clutched his belt and turned, thinking that his enemy was behind him. Instead, he saw an old woman pointing as well. One by one, the entire town pointed, showing him his adversary.

He pulled his gun and fired.