This is the first bit of fiction I’ve actually written out instead of keeping in my head in probably twenty years, so apologies if it’s not the best. This is for the Drabble Collective’s 2024 challenge.
Listen to Him, You’ll Live Longer
On the airship, Jean had nearly finished upbraiding Floch and Samuel. “ -tell you to stop setting fires, you stop setting fires! Understand?!”
Samuel sir-yes-sirred Jean, while Floch rolled his eyes and scowled. Jean took that for acceptance until Floch muttered, “Not like it’ll matter for too much longer.”
“What does that mean?” Jean said, cold, on edge.
Floch fumbled, too wide-eyed. “…We’re soldiers who just started a war. Think we’ll both see the end? Even if we do, we won’t be nineteen forever. You should look after yourself more, Kirstein. Take fewer risks. Delegate more. Eat healthier. … Drink less wine.”