An Unsettling Settling

He entered the gateway, emptying his mind, banishing his fears. Above him, swaying branches from the wood intruded into the garden, casting shadows in the luminosity. He hadn�t realized it was THAT time of the month! A full moon!

Great! he thought, doubt creeping in. As if my colleague isn�t spooky enough!

You can tackle this, he reassured himself. This night, unlike most in your life, will not be a disappointment.

Rustling leaves pushed aside and revealed an emerging cloven hoof. �Ah, you�ve come!� the Devil�s voice boomed, as he extended a sharp, quill pen. �Now, let�s settle that debt.�