By Erik McHatton: Three days ago, it was Henkel. Today, Rosha. Only Sheena, Malcor, and I remain. We huddle together, we three, shaded in our tent, unsafe within our village’s walls, holding only terror between us. … Continue readingA Liturgy for Rosha

By J.R. McConvey: I hear the sounds first. Coming back to consciousness, my eyes still locked shut, I think, music. But my brain knows that’s not right. It takes a few seconds to get it. … Continue readingThe Infinite Shape of Regret

By H.V. Patterson: Peter gazed at the rainbow trout swimming incessantly in their raceway prisons. Their scales flashed pink, olive, and silver in the moonlight. They had such simple, mindless lives. Sometimes he envied them. … Continue readingFishers of Men

By M. Lopes da Silva: The little girl stared at the new robot toy her father had just bought for her: it had a black visor instead of eyes and a stiff plastic body with four stubby limbs. … Continue readingThe Hug Problem

By Ali Seay: The bang of the heavy church door made him jump. Ed took a breath, picturing the suitcase, packed and ready in his trunk. A silent partner in his cowardice. He had no idea if he’d need it, but it was there if he had to go. … Continue readingOn His Way Out

By H.B. Diaz: Agent James Davis of the F.B.I. has received a correspondence from the serial killer known as The Skin Walker on Friday last. The murderer has terrorized greater Baltimore these past months, striking seven times in as many weeks and discarding the grotesque remains all across town. … Continue readingThe Skin Walker

By Christina Ladd: Once when the plague ravaged the land, there was a man who was buried alive. It was the custom in those times to attach a bell to the corpse, and when the man awoke, he rang the bell unceasingly until he was dug up. … Continue readingRing

By Diane Nantais: There was something about the ritual of cooking that Kate Winters found deeply gratifying. The careful selection and preparation of ingredients, the specific weights and measurements and instructions, the indulgent results; the whole process soothed something inside of her. … Continue readingThe Perfect Holiday

By Nikki R. Leigh: “I reckon you’ve seen him?” Jamie said, leaning forward on her elbows, digging grooves into her thighs. “Skinny and brittle. Seen him turn while walking and he all but disappeared. As crisp as a fallen leaf. As flat as one too.” … Continue readingAutumnal Equinox

By Patrick Barb: 1. Corn-Silk Sally and the Pumpkin Patch Massacre. Anguished cries of the dying echo across picked-over fields of smashed pumpkins. … Continue readingThe Decimations of Corn-Silk Sally