The Tide WaitsBy Rebecca M. Douglass
“Shut it, you sotted fool!”
“It’s th’ lord’s truth.”
The thump of a blow cut off the too-loud declaration, and Lira looked up from the glass she had just filled. In the back corner of the bar, two shepherds lambasted one another drunkenly. Sighing, she handed the glass across to the blacksmith, and picked up the stout club she kept to maintain the peace. Crossing the room in three strides, Lira grabbed the loudmouth by the collar, and barred the second man from further attack with her weapon.
Lira dragged the dazed shepherd to the door, pushed him out into the night, and turned to confront his drinking buddy and sparring partner. “You, too. Out.”
The second shepherd cast a forlorn look at the table where half a glass of ale still stood. “Aw, I was
