By Sword, Stave or Stylus

A gladiator painting with manticore blood. A demon detective policing Hell. A ninja who can turn into shadow. Prepare to be swept away to worlds beyond our own in these thirteen short fantasy stories. This collection includes:Live By the Sword - art and magic combine in a fantasy version of the Roman arena. Leprosaria - a knight and his chronicler uncover strange goings on in a leper hospital. Long Nights in Languedoc - something monstrous pursues an English army through medieval France.
The Essence of a Man - the magical power of art is tested under siege. Shadows, Stones and Hungry Ghosts - a prisoner faces a haunting interrogation. The Wizard's Stairs - a young man, an angry wizard and a test of love. Striking Black Silence - a ninja becomes the shadows on a deadly mission. The Edge of the World - a lowly gutter dweller carries a vital message across a strange rooftop world. The Hunter in the Stacks - a scholar takes up his spear and goes hunting knowledge.
The Suspicions of Shadowvalt - a demonic whodunnit. The Faces of the Fallen - Detective Shadowvalt returns to investigate a murder in Hell. The Magpie Dance - a group of morris dancers are more than they seem. One Minute of Beauty - art, revolution, absinthe and a visionary moment.