[18+] Today's story is “Earning his Stripes” by Faolan, who is an English teacher during the day, and a dancer and writer by night. You can find more of his stories published in anthologies by Thurston Howl Publications and Red Ferret Press.

"Earning his Stripes" is featured in the upcoming anthology "Breeds: Wildcats", which is edited by Kirisis and features art by James H, otherwise known as Tabaxitaxi.

Read for you by Khaki, your faithful fireside companion.