Stakes are going up this round. I've decided to do away with other judges not out of hubris or wrath, but because I want everyone to have an opportunity for the win.

I want a fable. The nature of a fable is a didactic story that teaches a moral at the end of it. Fables are also conducive to flash fiction due to their use of overt symbolism and anthropomorphism. Anything is game here for characters, including non-living entities. However, if you decide to forego the use of non-human characters, you have created a parable. Both are acceptable, but creative use of the fable will often be more interesting.

You will also be writing a fable that revolves around the idea of sin. Sin takes on many forms, so as writers you are free to interpret this more loosely within the confines of the fable.

And furthermore, I want non-conventional fable characters. None of this wise old owl, crafty crow shit. There is an entire world out there to use. You will be judged on your use of theme, symbolism, and characterization.

And here's what's at stake.

I started an online literary magazine (http://www.albatrossmagazine.com) a year and a half or so ago, that unfortunately has been sitting dormant since the first issue. I've managed to secure a job that allows me more financial freedom than before, so I'm going to re-start my lit mag. The winner will receive publication in the next issue.

And [money]x5. Yes. 50 boners, to be paid upon publication* (publication date, as yet unknown, but I hope to be done by summer).

There will only be 1 winner. However, I do not want that to dissuade you from making a good story. So have at it.