PHOTO PROMPT © David Stewart
Eyes closed, she inhales scent of peony from the bouquet near her bed. Even though midsummer, a pastel printed comforter pushes tight around her body and up to her chin. Murmured voices surround her. They are waiting for her end.
She opens her eyes to see their faces, full of love and sorrow. She will be missed.
“Go eat,” she whispers to them.
All but one files out. Meilin encloses one cold claw as she leaves her body.
Warm and energized, she ascends through clouds, finally reaching Jade Emperor Palace. She’s pleasantly surprised to learn Jade Empress Dragon rules here.
[100 words]
Rochelle Wisoff-Fields is the springy host of Friday Fictioneers. Thanks to Dave for the wonderful photo to inspire.
Tao Talk 
No getting away from rulers? Even in death?
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I’m afraid not. But with a good ruler things go very well…
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good one Li! :-) Love it!
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Thank you, Carol Anne :)
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Nicely done Li. I love how you always find a unique aspect of the image to explore in your story
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Thank you, Sadje. I noticed all of the dragons on the roofs and it made me think of a heavenly palace.
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You’re welcome.
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Great storytelling, Li. :)
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Thank you :)
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😀
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I loved reading what you saw in this image. Very enjoyable.
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Thank you, Dawn :)
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Nicely written.
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Thank you, MrBinks!
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Great take, Lisa. Enjoyed this.
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Thank you, Sandra.
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Poignant POV here. Fits perfectly. Good story.
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Thanks, Bear!
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A new life, a different place. Nice one, Lisa.
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Thanks much, Keith :)
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Dear Lisa,
Imaginative and uplifting story. Nicely done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle, thank you and happy you enjoyed the story.
Shalom,
Lisa
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I like that peaceful death. Not sure I want to transition into another material world though…(K)
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Thank you, Kerfe. I have already decided I want to come back as a tree (in a remote forest, far away from humans.)
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A tree would be good. I’m happy with my elements reconfiguring into whatever they find.
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<3
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Beautiful writing. Well done.
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Thanks much, Athling.
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You capture the spiritual and mystic culture of ancient eastern beliefs. Loved it.
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James, thank you so much. I tried.
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I noticed the dragon, too, but couldn’t work it into my story. Just write a story about dragons. There ya go! Nice one.
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Nobbin, you’ll see this is a veritable nest of dragons. Thanks :)
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I held space with my parents as they died. I do wonder where they wanted to go in the end.
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<3
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great take on the prompt. well done. :)
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Thanks much, Plaridel :)
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The opening scene drew me right in. I dont exactly get what happened but the prose is a wonderful read.
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Thanks very much, Clare, glad you enjoyed it.
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listening
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Good fun story!
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Thank you, Neel :)
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Sounds like she was ready to go, there’s a sense of peace in this passing and I’m pleased about the dragon empress too!
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Thanks much :)
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Oh, love this. That claw. A terrific death scene.
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Thanks much, Laurie :)
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She’s in a better place now. Nice one. 👍
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Thank you!
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It’s taken me a few days to get caught up with everyone. I love this beautiful, imaginative picture of life/death/life.
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Thanks, Linda, I like how you put that.
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