By Sword, Stave or Stylus

A gladiator painting with manticore blood. A demon detective policing Hell. A ninja who can turn into shadow. Prepare to be swept away to worlds beyond our own in these thirteen short fantasy stories. This collection includes: Live By the Sword – art and magic combine in a fantasy version of the Roman arena. Leprosaria – a knight and his chronicler uncover strange goings on in a leper hospital. Long Nights in Languedoc – something monstrous pursues an English army through medieval France. The Essence of a Man – the magical power of art is tested under siege. Shadows, Stones and Hungry Ghosts – a prisoner faces a haunting interrogation. The Wizard’s Stairs – a young man, an angry wizard and a test of love. Striking Black Silence – a ninja becomes the shadows on a deadly mission. The Edge of the World – a lowly gutter dweller carries a vital message across a strange rooftop world. The Hunter in the Stacks – a scholar takes up his spear and goes hunting knowledge. The Suspicions of Shadowvalt – a demonic whodunnit. The Faces of the Fallen – Detective Shadowvalt returns to investigate a murder in Hell. The Magpie Dance – a group of morris dancers are more than they seem. One Minute of Beauty – art, revolution, absinthe and a visionary moment.