“Victors” by By Jonette Stabbert

Revolt

Esmeralda poured, and then held the empty bottle aloft. The other crones, also swathed in black, sat in silence. The soldiers lifted their glasses.

Esmeralda addressed the men. “This special vintage has been saved by our people for half a century, reserved for those fit to conquer us.” Her eyes challenged them. “Only real men can drink it. To victory,” she croaked.

“To victory,” the men toasted, and knocked back their drinks in one swallow.Seconds later, while their oppressors writhed on the ground, the women stood and spat on their dying bodies.