Twisty Tales

Featured Tale

Writing on the Wall

Carl woke to see mysterious writing on the wall. He recalled the biblical story of a finger writing on a king’s wall. After the prophet Daniel interpreted it, things didn’t end well for the king. Carl wasn’t going to wait around to find out what the words meant for him. …

The King’s Alchemists

King Bartholomew summoned the Royal Alchemists to the throne room. They bowed before the king. “Alchemists! You have failed to turn lead into gold.” “From this day forward, I declare you shall no longer be alchemists. You are henceforth magicians!”…

Another Path

The waitress tops off my coffee cup; the cup across from me is full. I’m happy. Today is the day. The first time I will see her, in person, face to face. No profile photo or video call could do…

A Small Price to Pay

King Bartholomew’s armies attacked the distant land of Iranizbad. For months, the war dragged on. He assured his subjects that victory was near. Farmers couldn’t afford feed for livestock, or fertilizer for crops. People couldn’t afford food to eat, or…

All You Can’t Eat

Mr. and Mrs. Termite tucked themselves into their little bed. Mr. Termite’s tummy growled. “That was a long trip, honey. I’m really hungry.” “Me too,” said Mrs. Termite, “let’s eat. There’s a lot of food here.” “Yes, it is a…

The Royal Mosquito Defense Initiative

King Bartholomew smacked his arm. “Drat! The mosquitoes have invaded the kingdom!” “Prime Minister: Prepare the Declaration of War on Mosquitoes.” “Minister of War: Prepare the armies to repel the invasion. Provide every soldier with fly swatters.” “Your Majesty, may…

The Purloined Pen

6:47 a.m., with a steaming mug of coffee in hand, I flop down on the couch and turn on the TV. I reach for my To-Do list notebook and my pen. The notebook is there on the cushion where I…

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