Reputation

"Reputation" by W. C. Tuttle is a vivid story set in the tense atmosphere of Santa Ynez, right by the Mexican border, where everyone lives under the shadow of the deadly bandit known as "El Tigre". The tale dives into how fear and a dangerous reputation can control people, and it questions what it really means to be brave. The story kicks off in a lively cantina, with locals gossiping about the scary Jeff Tigard, a bandit famous for his cruelty. Suddenly, during a wild storm, Tigard himself storms into the cantina, demanding the villagers' gold and pushing around Felipe, the poor bartender. The suspense is broken when a mysterious rider appears, who surprisingly reveals the Tiger’s true identity and history of misdeeds. In a shocking turn, the stranger easily takes down the Tiger without a fight, showing Tigard is nothing more than a scared coward. After the stranger's brave act, they simply ride off into the storm, leaving the villagers amazed and safe.