My story from the July 2023 issue of Birdy, inspired by art by Moon Patrol. It seemed obvious from the image that this was some kind of kung fu /fantasy/Blaxploitation mashup, but trying to weave its disparate elements (four specific characters, flames and a smashed vial of poison) into a single narrative took several attempts. Understanding it as an dream allegory for a soldier’s Vietnam experiences was the key.
THE FELL AND THE FAE 