Exhausted with life, Dakota tries to end his -- only to be saved at the last moment by his friend Terrell, who then drags him into a world of magic and intrigue that's always been right there, hidden beneath the surface.<br><br>Powerful magic users are steadily pulling the planet into a violent war, and evil forces will stop at nothing to take the talismans possessed by Dakota and his newfound family. Dakota soon finds himself deeply in over his head ... with love, with family, with fighting for all their lives.

The Pyre Starter

“I know some stuff about it,” Terrell continued, “but I wanna take you to meet someone who can do even more and teach you how it works.”


Dakota sighed. Giving up came naturally. “Fine. But if you’re full of shit, I’m coming right back here, and I’ll make sure you can’t fucking stop me.”


Terrell smiled wide. He rose to his feet stiffly and offered Dakota his hand. “Deal.”1


Packing for an overnight stay was easy. Dakota barely had any belongings, and what little he did own was just the bare necessities. Toothbrush. Toothpaste. Shampoo. Deodorant. Soap. Extra pair of jeans, underwear, socks, and a shirt. No real need to bring a razor, he could make do with a little stubble the next morning. Wallet, phone, and keys went on his person. That should do it.


He straightened his back and let out a loud sigh, staring at the small black bag that held everything he needed.


Chapter 4