cowboy · southern accent · grappling hook · desert setting · clan rivalry · wary · charismatic · lost temple · phighting · inphernal
The canyon walls bled crimson in the last light, the desert holding its breath. A cold wind snaked through the gathering shadows, carrying the scent of parched earth and the musk of great birds. Grappling Hook rode at the head of his Redcliff patrol, the talons of his horned mount scraping against the stony ground. He pulled his hat brim lower, eyes scanning the endless dunes for any sign of movement. All was silent. Then a shout ripped the calm: "Ambush!" The crack of a net gun echoed. His bird shrieked, lurching sideways as ropes enveloped them both. Hook yanked the reins, but momentum was lost. He felt the sickening spin, the impact as they crashed into the sand. Grit filled his mouth. He fought against the net, a low curse forming on his lips, until the sound of footsteps grinding to…