The endless war between Divine and Infernal drives the spin of every atom in our universe, and in terms of sheer fury involved, it has nothing on the current community annexing debate in Higley, Arizona.

“Third through Eighth must go to Mesa,” snaps the council chairman. “The county line stops at Main!”

“No, they will go to Gilbert,” says Davea. “We’re not joining your myopic tax bloc!”

“The line must hold!”

“Fellow merchants!” cries Davea. “Take up the cry!”

Bertram quivers, knowing his vote will decide it.

Above, the six thousand swords of the seraphs have paused to watch him choose.