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A 35-page modern fable by Laurie Lamson Synopsis A bull walks out of the sea into a modern urban metropolis, much to the surprise and excitement of the city dwellers. When the Mayor fails to sacrifice the bull as advised by a yuppy named Apollo, he finds the Gods work in mysterious and perhaps even kinky ways. "The City & the Beast" was a Writer's Network quarter finalist. Excerpt follows: The door opened and Mayor Falkirk saw a golden young man impeccably dressed and casually poised on his threshold. "Yuppies", thought the Mayor, concealing his surprise with a practiced restraint. "Sir, if I could have a moment of your time, I have an important proposition to discuss. My plan would serve you personally and benefit the entire city." "And you," responded the Mayor. "Of course." Impressed by the young professional's straightforward manner, the Mayor pointed to a chair. "I think I could spare a few minutes to hear such a plan." The graceful visitor took a seat. "My associates and I have been discussing the situation in your city for some time. As you know, no one feels safe. The people are desperate, both criminals and the rest of the population who hope to escape them. The people feel alienated from one another, from their city, from their world. The old values, seeking love and wisdom, have been forgotten. The people need something to reunite them." "Agreed. But what is your proposal?" "A public sacrifice," said the young man. "A what - ?" "It may sound strange to you, but it's simple and effective. Proven through the ages." The Mayor was stunned, at a loss. He was captivated by this charming young man. He was a relatively open-minded Mayor, able to think for himself. And the young man was not exaggerating, his city was truly desperate. "Do you really think it would work? What... or who?! - would we sacrifice?" The visitor permitted himself a grin. "We can provide you with the ideal solution. An excellent specimen of a bull. Just the thing. Just like the old days." "This is a crowded city..." The Mayor was surprised to find himself taking this seriously... "We can take care of everything. It's best to let the public view the bull beforehand. We'll find a place for it on arrival. You'll have ample time to publicize and plan the sacrifice." How barbaric! But the young man was most convincing. "How much will this cost?" the Mayor asked. "The people will be reconnected. That will be our payment. And you will all be happy with the results. I promise." He looked deep into the Mayor's skeptical eyes with his own, which were like open doors. The Mayor felt a warm sensation in his chest. "Only know that you can believe what I say. The bull must be sacrificed." The Mayor found it exceedingly strange, but he knew he trusted the young man. He was ready to agree. "I guess it's okay, if you're going to take care of everything." The man grinned again and rose to leave. "Wait a minute, what's your name?" "Apollo." In a flash he disappeared through the door. With a deep sigh, the Mayor lifted his head from the now-crumpled city school budget on his desk. This impossible job is making me insane, he thought. I must have fallen asleep reading this bad news. With the slow, weary effort of a very old man he took his overcoat from the back of the door and put it on. I better face the fact I can't save this city, he thought sadly. There are no easy solutions. Depressed, he left the building and took a cab home. 
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