Greetings, short story lovers, and welcome to the very first round of the 2015 Tournament!

We’ve got a match up for the ages to kick things off today.

In one corner we have, Joseph Devon, who has brought us heartfelt tales this year like “Ocean’s Bounty” and “Waking Slumber” as well as a story where a weird disgusting plant eats some people.

In the other corner we have the inimitable Lu Whitley. Ever since she cleaned Albert’s clock in The Battle of Storms with “Words on the Wind” she’s been an in-house favorite among our authors.

Their mystery prompt?

Traps.

Traps come in all kinds of forms. There are traps for rats and traps laid for entire armies, there are traps that capture and traps that kill, there are physical traps and metaphorical traps.

Who will remain caged and who will spring free?

Let’s find out.

Joseph Devon strikes first with “The Burnt Passage.”

Lu Whitley counters back with “Monster Trap.”

The Booby Trap Battle has begun!

We have two judges that will render their decision next Monday. The third vote comes from you, the readers. We ask that you read both stories objectively, and then leave a comment below or on the story itself. Authors are not allowed to comment on their own stories, but we’re sure they’ll be checking in here. We’ll tally up the totals and announce our champion on Monday.

And remember, if you like one of this week’s stories, vote it up in the new all-time best of list (new stories appear at the bottom).

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photo credit: Food Addiction via photopin