The prompt cards were “owner of a hot-air balloon” and “first day of school.” I didn’t really work out an entire story from it, it’s more just a short scene, and mainly because the only thing that really crossed my mind was how Mendo from Urusei Yatsura arrives to school.

So, short and stupid and not really story.

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          “You want to… what?”

          The teenager drew himself up to his full height, attempting to loom over the old man. If his height impressed or intimidated the man was hard to say. The old man continued to stare at him impassively, his bright blue eyes revealing nothing. “I want to rent your hot air balloon for a few hours Friday morning,” the teenager started again.

          “To arrive at your first day of school.” The old man finished the request he had heard earlier. The teenager nodded, his face lighting up with enthusiasm. “Fuck off.”

          The teenager deflated for a moment, and then scowled. “If it’s a matter of money, I’ve researched the cost and I can afford it.”

          “I’d charge double. It’s a dumbass fee.” Before the teen could respond, the old man held up a finger. “Have someone fly you and parachute in if you’re that eager to show up from the sky.”

          The teen pouted momentarily and said, “My mom said I can’t.”

          The old man narrowed his eyes at the teen momentarily and then slammed the door in his face.