I woke up Thursday morning with a queasy feeling in my gut. I figured it was nerves: today was my first day back to school. I hoped taking a shower would help me get settled. I did my business in the bathroom and felt a little more awake. That seemed to help.

The Manchester Early Summer Carnival 
A “How I Spent My Summer Vacation: I became a Girl” Gaiden
by
Rebecca Coleman

-1-
A Proposal

Nathan observed as the demon king ruthlessly struck down his comrades, each one collapsing in a pool of their own blood. He too was rapidly losing vitality. In a desperate attempt, he endeavored to cast a spell that might stop the flow of blood, yet his dwindling strength rendered him unable to complete the incantation. Overwhelmed with despair, he listened to the anguished cries of his fellow soldiers-those who had placed their trust in him, fought alongside him, and believed in his leadership time after time. His senses began to blur, and he could feel the encroaching shadow of death.