Winter Gray

Ben stepped outside the south door of the little cabin - just to take a quick look around. He hadn't yet put on his coat, and the cool air felt refreshing. He was glad, however, that there was no wind this morning, or it would really be cold.

Ben's breath formed steamy puffs, visible in the crisp air. He could see that frost covered the ground. It was quiet this morning, except for the occasional crowing of the roosters.

As he started to turn back inside, he saw something out of the corner of his eye. Slipping back inside, Ben grasped the Colt hanging in its holster by the door, and then eased outside once again. He took cover behind the nearest tree.