A sensation trickled down Farver’s neck, the growing excitement outside of the tunnel reaching a fever pitch. He tried to calm his breathing, holding tight to the flagpole in his hands. The harsh light of the floodlamps bathed the field in white light, and the grass glistened in their splendour. The group began moving ahead, into louder and louder jubilation and cheering. His feet began moving on their own, following behind his friend, Tomos. His sports vest itched against his shoulders as they shook under the weight of the swaying flag, another odd sensation to add to the anxiety inducing mix.
Finally, as the dark of the tunnel gave way to the light of the stadium, Farver stepped into the open. He looked all around, taking in the faces of the near infinite crowds, stretching up the walls of the coliseum and swirling around the edges of the oval grounds. He couldn’t help but smile as the cheering – directed at him now – swelled.
He began waving the flag of his town, the coat of arms of his region’s duke. A great eagle holding a spear and scroll, bathed in regal golds and reds.
Just as he settled into his task, the stadium lights fizzled out with a thunk, the darkness of the night enclosing the grounds.
The crowds went silent.
“This wasn’t meant to happen, right, Tomos?” Farver tapped the shoulder of his friend ahead.
“I don’t think so.”
A few moments passed, and the audience erupted into confused murmuring, as they became aware that something had gone wrong.
Then, the fire started.
Today's prompt: blackout
This week's worldbuilding prompt: wonders and achievements
If you'd like to participate too, the contest/prompts can be found here:
@mariannewest/day-1654-5-minute-freewrite-tuesday-prompt-blackout
