The Invasion

The first one came slowly and quietly. It made its way unobtrusively, when the moon was high. The mood was slumberous; peaceful. No irritation or discomfort was felt, and it settled in, beckoning the others who were all ready to follow.

She stirred in her sleep, smiling at a fleeting dream she would scarcely be able to remember in the morning.

The next few came with great caution, and in small clusters. Their stealth paid off, and soon there was a little army of them sparsely dotting the terrain. They had marked their new territory, and were at a strategic advantage for the next invasion. They settled in quietly, and waited in confident impudence for the rest.

The heat became oppressive. No longer fast asleep, she became restless. Suddenly thirsty, she awoke with a start. Switching on her nightlight, she poured herself a glass of water from the lifesaving pitcher on her bedside table. She took a long sip, and felt the cool water soothe her throat. She felt slightly refreshed but not entirely. Something didn't feel right. She frowned as she scratched at her forehead and cheeks. The humidity, or whatever it was, was irritating her skin. Too tired to really care, she turned off the light and tried to sleep.

By sunrise an entire army of them was there. Conspicuous, proud, and not at all easy to ignore. Their presence was obvious, and an eyesore. And worst of all, they were beginning to cause pain.

She woke up well before the alarm rang. Hot, sweaty and itchy, she went straight to the sink to wash her face. She glanced in the mirror, and shouted in horror - her face! HER face!

They celebrated their latest conquest. Each pimple beamed to the next in arrogant victory. Her face would never be the same again...