The flames boasted powerfully out of my chimney, illuminating my beautiful army as it trekked to the village. Tonight would be my night to shine. Tonight would be the villagers last night. No more raids. No more burnings. No more witch hunting. I cackled loudly into the flames, willing my laughter to be carried to the villagers. I wanted them to see what was coming. I wanted them to feel fear. I needed to harness that fear. Then, my army would be unstoppable. We could stop all the burnings, all the hunters. Then we will we have our peace.
Benediction for Ice Cream by Ana Marie Boyd
I can still hear the slow jam jingle of the ice cream truck gliding along past our yellow house like it was riding on rails
April 30, 2026
