rawr, short story.

[Ecstasy]

By short story I mean not even 400 words. Criticism strongly welcomed!<3. I tried to use color symbolism, and light/dark imagery to better portray my meaning.

--

It glowed, as the vibrantly colored sequins shimmered in the dull light. The innocent pearl-white coating glistened and demanded attention and awe. Elegantly formed, the mask, so intricately designed smiled with its deep red lips. Cascades of yellow rolled around the eyes, traced by a deep-set green. Barely visible, an opaque blue tainted the cheeks; it was an enthralling array evoking the desire to know more.

Placed motionless onto a stool, it lay in wait. Behind, a young girl stood; her face shadowed. With contempt, she ran her fingers down the glistening, silky glass. They were alone, for now.

Lopsided on the wall, a tattered, worn mirror hung. The deep scratches shone even through the thick layer of dust. Stepping forward, the young girl's face appeared in the glass. Her mind went limp as she gazed into reality; she stared keenly at her image, as if hoping it would change.

She brought down the flaps of her lids, blanketing her dark, sunken eyes. Tightly stretched, her wrinkled, dry skin barely covered the jutting cheekbones. Propped high, her nose hung crookedly. The images danced and taunted in her mind, leaping through her thoughts. She watched, ashamed, as her true appearance unveiled.

She stood completely still, utterly engulfed by her own eternal conflict. Arms shaking, she reached forward. Placing a single, small hand on the mask, she gently brought it to her face. Her mind had realized her cowardice long ago; yet she continued to hide. Eyes still fiercely shut, she hesitated. The putrid depiction of her appearance played through her mind, and all uncertainty left. She needed the lust of others, and she thrived for the affection. Firmly she placed the mask onto her face.

In an instant, the room had lit, and a low hum of voices steadily grew louder. The girl slowly opened her eyes, observing the setting around her. A small smile crept onto her gracefully painted allusion; a light, cynical laugh escaped her lips.

Music filled the ballroom as people merrily waltzed to the serenading classical piece. Large grins were plastered onto each person as they pleasantly danced. Bright colors, feathers, and gems floated steadily along with them. It was the masquerade of life; each mask, so carefully put together, hid the withered, repugnant mind within.

[edit] I don't know if this belongs in here or fanfiction. If it belongs over @ at the ff section, could mods move it?<3.