“A game,” the old woman proposed. “You win, I join you without complaint. I win, I get another year.”
Death found this a refreshing change from the usual begging and countered, “Another month.”
The board was set and the woman moved her first piece. Minutes ticked by; the only sound was the clicking of ivory on wood.
The old woman, a thrice-world champion, was no match for millennia of experience. One last move and she sat back faintly smiling.
“Nice play,” she offered.
Death eyed her. “You’re not upset?”
“No. All I wanted was one more game.”
Then the queen fell.
Well done!!!!
Absorbing! Enjoyed it thoroughly!!
Hello Aeith,
Pithy writing with a zinger ending. Well done!
Great story, unexpected ending. Kudos.
Great last line.
Nicely done!
Queen indeed. Beautiful ending.
Deserves to become a classic.
I too was surprised at the end-enjoyed this.
Loved it. Right from the start, I was trying to work out how it would end. Then your brilliant ending stood up and slapped me.
Brilliant scene setting at the start. Great writing.
This is a really good story
Outstanding. Thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the twist at the end.
Enjoyed this! Well done.
Nice ending! Love it!
Love the read. Well written! Thank you.
Love the ending. Creative take on playing with death!