Chapter 2 – The Iron Horse
The gathering place known as the Iron Horse was loud, crowded, and thick with the smell of sweat, dust, and cheap drinks. A makeshift ring had been built in the middle of the room, surrounded by people who had come for entertainment.
Trent Larson was the attraction. Young, strong, and convinced of his own ability, he moved through the crowd as though the building belonged to him. He had the kind of confidence that made strangers step aside.
Eli stayed near the edge of the room and watched.
He did not study Trent's muscles. He watched his feet. He watched how the young fighter shifted his weight when he became impatient. He watched his shoulders move before his hands did.
Nobody noticed.
To everyone else, Eli was simply a tired farmer who had made a foolish decision because he needed money. The offer was simple: survive the agreed time in the ring and get paid.
Eli did not promise to win.
He only promised to stay.