The Duel
Steel clanged against steel. The long swords met, parted, and met again. It was like a dance, and Eleanor enjoyed watching. She didn’t understand the…
No Recourse, No Remorse
Jhendayre’s face twisted at the threat. “I wanted you to understand exactly how serious I am.” Ramar nodded toward Jhendayre’s bloody leg. “You’ve made your…
An Unsanctioned Event
“Street fight, street fight!” The chant grew louder, reaching a crescendo. Energy was high and if it wasn’t satisfied or redirected, the ensuing riot would…
Dead Man's Grip
His hands are shaking, though through fear or uncertainty I cannot tell. I decide to simplify things. My own hands curl around my revolver and draw with the…
Unexpected Aid
Thrust and parry. Attack, dodge, counterattack. We had been going on like this for what seemed like hours, though I knew it was only minutes. Blood seeped from…
One Important Thing
The first thing you learn at the DMV is how to get rid of customers. The training consists entirely of memorizing documents and scenarios in which they might…
Flash of Silver
There are no rules, per se, about what you do before you start the fight. However, there are certain guidelines; to ignore them would be bad form. A major…
Focus Fire
Three seconds. I stare across at “Kedge” Clawson. Small fellow, but steady as a rock. My hands are trembling. At this point I don’t even remember why we’re out…
Thousand-Yard Stares Only Get You So Far
The two men stood, back to sweaty back, under the Spaghetti Western sun. Thousand-yard stares leaped out of their eyeballs and ran off into the horizon…