In a tent tucked away not far from the arena, Billy sat on a table as Jack tied on his gloves in silence. There was no need for words. Both men said everything that needed saying and they had gone over the plan of attack everyday for the last couple of months anyway. It was all business now. It was a time for concentration and reflection. It was a time for resolve. Jack knotted the laces and tucked them in the cuffs. Billy steadied his breathing, making sure to take in as much air as possible.

A local kid they hired to help in the corner stood by and waited for instructions. Jack grabbed a tin pail, and handed it to the kid.

“Fill it up with water and make it cold.”

The kid nodded and hurried out.

It was stifling in the tent, but they kept the flaps closed to preve...

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