The Stranger

They were known simply as the Lucky 7. Known for their tricks, for never backing down, for going all the way. They strutted about and surveyed the town. They were confident they would own every inch. Quite the bunch they were. Some wary, some confident (one unworthy).

Then they froze as the winds changed. They heard some light rustling and knew who it was, it was the In Betweens gang.  The In Betweens were a notorious rival gang. They didn't have the drive of the Lucky 7, but they were loud and unruly. Pure trouble.

The two surveyed one another with disdain, muttering their condescension.
"They're wannabes."                 
"They're tired."
"We know how to finish."          
"We're more fun."

The Lucky 7 and The In Betweens flew towards each other in heated rage, ready to prove who was most worthy.

Then a soft voice said " Hello". Silence.  They turned to stare at the voice in darkness. "How certain are you?" the voice asked. "I could break all of you in half right now".

They knew immediately who it was, The Stranger. They thought he was a myth, a scary story you tell to guys you want to deflate.

The Stranger inhaled his cigarette, eyeing the In Betweens. He just shook his head. "You're barely a snapshot", he said. They knew it.

The Stranger exhaled the smoke onto the apprehensive Lucky 7. "Just because you broke in, doesn't mean you own it", he said calmly. They knew it.

The Stranger stomped out his cigarette. "This ends now. Go on your way, be what you are. But don't think you can rule." He laughed.

They knew he was right. He was something unique, undefined, unconquerable. As long as The Stranger was in town, they were mere memories.

The Stranger watched as the Lucky 7 and In Betweens scattered to their proper places. He smiled and continued to slowly wander the streets.