Queen of the Night - By Bhavna K. Mehta

Written By: Bhavna K. Mehta

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Bhavna K. Mehta presents "Queen of the Night," a compelling short story that invites readers into a world of mystery and intrigue. Set amidst the enigmatic backdrop of the Karoo, the narrative unfolds with a captivating blend of folklore and adventure. Bhavna, participating under the pen name "Queen of the Night," crafts a tale that leaves a lasting impression, exploring the theme of curiosity and its unforeseen consequences.

About the Work

"Queen of the Night" captivates with its tantalizing narrative and vivid imagery. Bhavna K. Mehta weaves a story where the allure of a mysterious tattoo leads to an unexpected encounter. The work employs a rich tapestry of legend and suspense, enticing readers with its atmospheric setting and the tension between curiosity and caution. The story's vivid descriptions and intriguing characters invite readers to ponder the line between fascination and fear.

Queen of the Night

Original Submission by Bhavna K. Mehta

Hashtag Kalakaar.

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Queen of the Night by Bhavna Mehta

“Hey! That’s a cool tattoo! Where did you get it?”

The waitress paused, turned around slowly, and smiled mysteriously. “You like it?

Matt was smiling and nodding at the same time. “Very much. I’ve never seen anything like it before. Does it mean anything?”

“Legend has it that she’s the queen of the snakes in these parts of the Karoo. When her third eye is opened, she transforms into a half- woman - half-snake. But be warned, do not look into her third eye or you will be lost forever in her coils.”

“Hmmm! Intriguing. Is that why you have her on the back of your leg? Scared to look her in the eye?” There was a challenging glint in Matt’s eyes.

She said nothing but shot him a disdainful look. This spurred Matt even more.

“I want to wear your snake queen on my hand all the time.” Matt ran his left finger from the wrist up to his right elbow. “Right here. I want the same tattoo.”

“You sure, Mister? Once the tattoo artist starts, there are no refunds.”

Matt’s colleague, Ryan, interjected. “You’re getting carried away, Matt. We still have a 250-kilometre drive back to Graaff-Reinet, and it’s already after three. We need to get out of this godforsaken place and back to civilisation—we’re expected at the office tomorrow.”

The waitress looked from Ryan to Matt. “It takes two hours to get the tattoo done. Seven hundred rands cash. Includes an anti-microbial soap and a small Vaseline. You up for it, Mister?” There was a glint in the waitress’ eyes and a challenge in her voice.

**********************************

They were back on the road at a quarter to six. Ryan was at the wheel. He was upset at the delay. He hated having to leave his wife and child at home alone whenever he was required to carry out site- inspections on sheep and ostrich farms across the Karoo. The farmers were the recipients of a government subsidy that supported indigenous farmers with financial support and technical advice. Today’s late departure meant that they would have to drive through the Valley of Desolation in darkness. He looked with resentment at the sleeping Matt who embraced adventure wherever he found it.

Night had fallen and the stars were twinkling in a clear sky. Matt rubbed his eyes and stared in wonder at the vast expanse above and the outline of the looming cliffs and columns of Dolerite from the valley floor. He opened the window and breathed in the night air. “Wow! God’s grandeur. I salute you. Hey, Queen of the Night, check it out!” Using his thumb and fingers he gently massaged the fresh tattoo from its slumber. “Wake up, sleepy eyes!” His thumb moved rhythmically in concentric circles around the left eye, the right eye, the third eye…

“What the f*#@!” Ryan yelled. There was a screech of tyres as the car ground to a halt.

“What’s going on?

“There’s something on the road. Look!” His voice was anxious.

It looked like a long, thick rope at first. Then it began to coil up and from its centre rose the head of a snake like a tall, slender stalk with three glinting, mesmerising eyes. Matt swallowed with difficulty and whispered, “OMG! She’s beautiful.”

Ryan’s voice was hoarse, “Lord help us! I think you have awoken the Queen of the Night, Matt and she does not look friendly. I don’t even know if there is anyone we can call for help at this hour in this G-D forsaken place. I think I can reverse a little and make a U-turn and we can…”

Out of the corner of his eye, Ryan saw a glazed look come on Ryan’s face. He put the car in reverse; pressed on the accelerator; made a noisy turn and headed in the direction of the town they had left. When he looked in his rear-view mirror, the Valley of Desolation cast brooding shadows. Unknown to him, a slithery form followed the vehicle purposefully.

…………The end,,,,,,,,,

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is an esteemed platform celebrating literary excellence across poetry and creative writing. It offers a unique opportunity for writers worldwide to showcase their talent and creativity, fostering a community of diverse voices and innovative storytelling.

We express our sincere gratitude to Bhavna K. Mehta for sharing "Queen of the Night" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her storytelling prowess and imaginative narrative have enriched the competition, and we look forward to seeing more of her work in the future. Thank you, Bhavna, for your captivating contribution.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.