Cimarron Prepares for 'Moon Stakes' Lunacy

By Lacy O'Malley, reporter for the Tombstone Epitaph

Rough and tumble city of Cimarron, NM is getting ready for its yearly ‘Moon Stakes’ poker tournament, which means that all manner of rabble will be showing up to see who will win, but with a $500 buy-in, only the very wealthy may apply. Last year the top prize was $5,000, but there was tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage done to the town, and six murders. Walter Frye, owner of the Pale Moon, the gambling club that hosts the prestigious event, assures the Epitaph readers that “Security will make sure that the event is as orderly as possible this year.” Mysterious gambler Castor Greeley is rumored to be making another appearance this year and will attempt to win the tournament for a record three years in a row. Local sources say that Greeley only gambles once per year and otherwise is a total recluse. Mason O'Sullivan, second place winner from last year, had this to say: “Greeley better watch his back. That cheatin’ wretch will get what’s coming to him!” In fact, many have accused Greeley of cheating over the years, but none can point to any evidence that he does so. Secret sources have told the Epitaph that he is indeed a ‘huckster’ magician, and can change the cards with his spells so he wins every time. How’s that for stacking the deck?