Throw the Bones, 99-Word Story

Posted on by Colleen M. Chesebro

The Carrot Ranch October 24, 2022, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about bones. It can be any genre or tone.

Is it spooky, irreverant, poignant? Go where the prompt leads!

Submit by October 29, 2022.

The druid priest swirled and dipped in his spiritual dance to the sun’s return. His long white robes glistened in the moonlight, wraith-like.

Within the branches of the oak tree, another priest gathered the All-Heal (mistletoe). One swift slice with the golden sickle and the mistletoe fell into the shroud.

A vast pile of wood forged from the forest stood at the ready. It was time to light the fire to pay homage to the sun god.

“Throw the bones,” chanted the priest. The bones sizzled in the fire.

The next year, “throw the bones” was shortened to “bon-fire.”

This is a sneak peek at the magic found within the pages of Fairies, Myths, & Magic II – A Winter Celebration, due to publish this December. This is a compilation of short stories, flash fiction, and poetry.

The Druids welcomed the winter solstice with a bonfire to celebrate the return of the sun. This is how the bonfire got its name from the phrase, “throw the bones.”

Coming SOON…

32 thoughts on “Throw the Bones, 99-Word Story”

    1. Yes! Fire was cleansing, so it made sense… could be part of the thinking involving the Vikings burning the ship and the bodies of their kings and queens. Although ancient man buried more bodies than burned them, I think.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. That’s such a bummer! I just hate technology glitches because I often feel so helpless. My theme is ancient but I don’t change a thing about it for fear that I’ll blow everything up. I hope WP can get this figured out for you.

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  7. You gave me an excited happy smile with this post. I cannot wait for your new book. I loved the first one and hoped you’d publish another. Thanks so much. I look forward to seeing the announcement that it’s available. ~Happy Dance~ ❤ 😀

    Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks so much. I haven’t found a good nature folk book in quite a while. You have a talent for great stories, you never fail to enchant. 😀

        Liked by 1 person

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