The Acrobat

A failed acrobat stands on
a charred stage.

The spotlight burns his skin.

His partner has fled, leaving him
alone to face an audience of
hecklers.  Their dull eyes pierce
his soul.

They demand a show,
and if not that, then blood.

"I cannot perform."  he tells the
unsympathetic audience.  "My
partner is nowhere to be found."

"We don't care!" screamed the audience.

"Give us what you promised us!"

"Give us what belongs to us!"

"I will give you my life, if that's what
you want?" he replied.

"It's not enough!" they jeer.

"It's not even close!"