**
The Sword Before the Dazzled Crowd
**
The sunlight gleamed on the blade, dazzling the crowd and causing them to shield their eyes.
He stood straighter and lifted the sword high. “Let it be known by all who wish to test their worth!” he bellowed. “Only he who pulls the sword from the stone will be King!”
He flipped the sword down, gripped the hilt in both hands, and plunged the blade into the rock. It wedged itself several inches down. He gave it an experimental tug and was satisfied it was secure.
He stepped back and turned to face the awed crowd. “May the first man come forth and try his luck!”
The crowd grew silent. Men and women looked at each other. He wondered who would step forward first. He felt a stir of anticipation. This was how legends were born. This was how a new era would begin. This was how–
Someone snorted. Another person chuckled. Giggles broke out. Mirth spread among the onlookers, and soon, the entire crowd was guffawing.
“Are you serious? It’s not the dark ages, mate!” someone shouted. “We thought this was a political rally, not a cosplay event!”
“What party do you represent?” someone else shouted. “I want to be sure not to vote for them!”
The crowd began to disperse, including a handful of people with their phones out, recording the entire spectacle.
Comments
Post a Comment