It was a Sunday but there was nothing relaxing about it. It was the day for re-election in Fruit Park. All the elders were to gather at the Orange Orchard early in the morning.

“I want to come too,” declared Din Din at the breakfast table.

“I don’t think any of you should come,” said Mrs. Dee as the elders prepared to leave to vote. “It’s not going to be a celebratory event like last time. Tempers will be flying high and it may very well get violent.”

“Let him come; Din Din is old enough to understand politics. The other three — Derek, Dave and Don can stay home” said Mr. D.

The family’s four adults and Din Din set off towards Fruit Park. On the way, they were joined by many other adults. The Orange Orchard was called so because of the border of sweet-scented orange trees. It was a pleasant clearing and large enough to accommodate the enormous dinosaurs, so all their major meetings and events were held here.

One side of the clearing housed an enormous cave where Old Rex, the ex-leader of the dinosaurs, lived. Outside his cave was a large stone table with benches where the dinosaur leaders sat to discuss and debate. The front of the table faced the grassy field where other dinosaurs could stand to listen to the debate and give their comments and suggestions.

Din Din could feel the air filled with tension and tempers as soon as he entered the clearing. Even though he was not old enough to cast his vote, he was curious to see how Tyro and Dr. Trish would fair. Tyro had been elected leader of the dinosaurs merely a year ago but he was being blamed for being selfish and vicious.

Dr. Trish who had been a runner-up at the election was now gaining steady popularity. The doctor........

© Dawn Young Magazine