“Dance of Fire”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

The flames rose, dancing in a hypnotic ring. Jumping, crouching, spinning, they performed a perfectly choreographed routine. Each movement, though perfectly timed, was complete improvisation. The flames were aware of each other, choosing partners, switching partners, going solo. Their dance was perfection.

But it could not last. The clouds had been awoken by the rising tendrils of smoke that had wafted into their domain. It tickled their noses, making them cough up fine droplets.

They could not stand for this disruption. As one, they banded together, forming a blanket over the fire, sacrificing their own bodies as a shield as they prepared.

They were ready. A sharp crack rang through the air: their battle cry. Without hesitation, they unleashed the full force of their rage. Their ammunition struck the flames, sizzling into nothingness. A few met their mark, and the high-pitched screams of death filled the air.

Down below, the fire redoubled its efforts. It danced with determination. Still, one-by-one, its soldiers fell.

Finally, only a single flame remained. It took a bow as the clouds roared their victory.

Final Comments: This story was so much fun to write. I do wish that I’d included more in the middle about the actual battle (i.e., what the fire was doing to fight back).

Overall Rating: 🥰