The Hunted - A Short Story
They called the women "soothsayers" or " witches" that would cast spells on higher authority figures. Random fires would appear out of nowhere, especially in autumn. The men made monthly rituals out of accusing poor or colored women of being Oracles, providing planted evidence to the court. The women would plead and provide proof of their whereabouts; however, most would fail the all-male jury. The women would be set to fire on a stake or let loose in the woods to be hunted by poorly made guns, tracking dogs or arrows. One woman performed the treasonous act of abortion but because of the unforeseen amount of blood loss, it was reported; for the family's sake. The woman meant no harm however scared; she ran to the woods. She could hear barking in the distance and men shouting for a personal vengeance towards her. "We'll hang you, witch!" They shouted. As she ran, she came across a shrubbery under a small overhanging piece of land. She sli...