Written by Madison Roth

“The King has given the traitor’s sentence!

Death by hanging!”

blistered feet, worn ragged from routine and repetition

Slowly slog up the stairs.

Each ‘thump’ one less second away from 

Eternity.

The rough rope slips over the slumping head

And adorns the neck like fake jewelry.

An eager, calloused hand 

Reaches for the lever-

“WAIT!”

The flash of a sword slashes through the air

And cuts the grainy, rightful noose.

The weapon rings out when tossed away, 

As fresh air floods pardoned lungs.

“The Prince!”

Crowds gasp, as

Keys clink and rusted cuffs clatter, 

Then warm arms embrace.

“I pardon you.”

Tears sting, wet and burning. 

The wind picks up, 

carrying newly born weeping.

“I forgive you.”

Pink light heralds the Dawn.