By Any Other Name — Kathryn Loch

Micah's thoughts scrambled just as his body fought to maintain his balance. He sensed the man's hatred, like an icy blanket threatening to smother him. Steel rang against steel as Micah continued to block each blow, backing away. He had to go on the offensive, he had to turn the rhythm of the fight away from Robert's advantage and to his own.

But Robert's sword continued to dictate Micah's moves. A building detonated in a firestorm beside them. Hot embers struck Micah's face and he battled to suck in a breath but inhaled only smoke. He recoiled and gagged.

Robert's sword slammed into his right arm, destroying his armor, cutting flesh and cracking bone.

Micah roared in agony, launching himself backward just as he lost his grip on his sword. Suddenly he found himself flat on his back, behind the buildings, away from the heat and smoke, with Robert standing over him, his sword raised for the death stroke.

Micah rolled and heard a muted thud of steel plowing into rock. But the ground canted away from him and he started to slide. Micah blinked his blurred vision clear. The ravine! Dear God he had made a foolish error. He had lost his position on the battlefield and would now pay the price. He clawed at the earth with his left hand, stopping his fall. His legs dangled over the edge. Micah battled to pull himself forward but his injured arm was useless. He snarled in pain and fury.

Robert hesitated, a slow smile tugging at his lips. “Now this is interesting.” He stepped forward, methodically, and raised his sword.

Micah's throat went dry, he urgently cast for a way to escape, but his only choice was to hold on and face Robert's sword, or let go and plunge into the ravine. His gaze stopped on a large root protruding from the ravine wall. It was about four feet down and two feet to his left. It was as thick as his arm and below it the ground thrust outward slightly forming a small ledge. It would be a desperate gamble that had little chance of succeeding. He looked back at Robert who continued his death march.

Micah's gaze returned to the root. He took a deep breath and jumped.