The Stranger

Destin Joyal

Smashwords Edition

Copyright Destin Joyal 2010

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

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The sun was dipping low in the sky, being chased from its post by a moon which had yet to appear. The dying light threw its yellow-orange hue across the land, changing the color of the dust. The sand seemed to draw in the colors, making it the color of the light. A gust of wind kicked some of it, but it floated back to the ground every bit as lifeless as the man who had earlier this day, been very much alive. Cacti began to throw out their spiny shadows to join those of the vultures that circled some distance away. In the town of Haven the day was dragging to a close as it did each sunset. However, in the saloon the night was just beginning. It had been just another day for the entire town. It seemed as though it may continue this way as the men straggled through into the dusty saloon, their boots scrapping the worn wood that led into the bar; the rusted hinges of the door creaking as they swung. Once upon a time it had been new. The newness had left long ago, hoping to find a more suitable place to stay.