Diplomacy by the payload.In the near future, combat drones exact America's foreign policy. Sleek and deadly, the drones require pilots with equally quick reflexes, a trait in short supply among the military. They need pilots weaned on video games. They need teenagers.But in this game there are no respawns.A science fiction short story.

Marooned on a skyland that crashed to the sea, young Joha Mender is slowly starving to death. His food stores exhausted, he must face his greatest fear and brave the deep waters. But the sky-peoples harbor old superstitions about the sea for a reason, and as Joha enters this alien world, he discovers that myths often contain an element of truth.

Evil won't be swindled.In the frozen lands beyond the edge of civilization, charlatan Marten the Magnificent swindles villagers of their valuables in exchange for superstitious charms. But when faced with a true monster, Marten is forced to rely on his own useless trinkets, or risk losing his life.A dark fantasy short story.

Waldron's Gate, capital of Alterra. A land powered by steam, but inspired by the power of dreams, and surrounded by the mysterious Fog.The Dream Engine explored this city. Now you are invited to go Beyond The Gate.Twenty-three authors will take you over, under, into, and beyond the Fog in this cross-genre compilation of short stories.From time travel to romance, young adult to horror, science fiction to historical fantasy, you'll discover tales that delight, intrigu...