For this one, you must get a defeated dragon out of your new kingdom.
THE MOUNTAIN (any gender, early twenties through late life)
[focal point one]
Hello. Thank you for letting me come this close to you. I won't come any further. And the army will stay back.
[focal point two]
Do you hear? Go no further than where you are now! But keep your weapons on you! I'm going to negotiate with the beast!
[focal point one]
I think you can understand English. I heard you responding to English commands today. Sometimes the general was giving you complex orders. What's more, I can see it in your eyes. Beast. That word stings you, doesn't it? You winced a little. There is more hurt in your eyes. You really cared about this kingdom didn't you? No it has been taken over.
Wait. WAIT!
I do not know dragons well but I know what a strong inhale portends. Before you shower me in fire, you should be warned. The army will attack.
[focal point two]
That is the next command! If the dragon breathes fire, proceed. Attack in full number. Full weaponry and force.
[focal point one]
Most will perish under your flame and your claws. But some will survive.. and they will get you. Those wings are broken. You will have nowhere to fly. You will be slain.
Take a gentle breath out and hear me. The mountain looking over the kingdom. It's yours. We will provide you with food. We can even assign you a mythical status. You will be the wise but angry God of this new kingdom. And most importantly, you will survive.
This idea relieves you. I can see it in your eyes.
[focal point two]
ALL RETREAT. The beast-- our new FRIEND has reached an understanding.
[focal point one]
You have until midnight to make your new home.
Copyright 2016 by Matt Haynes.
If you would like to use this piece, please credit: "Courtesy of Matt Haynes and The Pulp Stage"