Markle Vanrick is cursed by the gods. Nothing in his life has ever worked out. So, when he works up the courage to leave home with only his lute, it’s only natural his money is stolen and he’s stuck without a way to get to his cousin’s farm.<br><br>Enter Frye Indori, a mischievous man who lives life to the fullest -- only because he’s a few steps away from being caught and killed. Blessed with magic from the goddess Magana, Frye fled his hometown to escape the clutches of the corrupt priestess performing evils in the goddess’s name. When he runs into helpless Markle, he feels obligated to show Markle there is some good in the world.<br><br>Like it or not, Markle gets caught up in Frye’s game of fox and hare. When the priestess finally catches them, Markle may have a few surprises of his own.

Music and Magic

“One more,” shouted someone in the crowd. It had dwindled as the evening had progressed, but there were still quite a few who wanted to be entertained.


“I can’t,” Frye admitted. He had plans to perform his special dances later and he needed some energy to use that magic. “Besides, I think my brother fell asleep.”


Markle was laying his head atop a table, his lute beside his face. The kid had been amazing, skillful and a natural performer. He’d given the crowd everything they’d wanted. So much talent. And so wasted.


Frye flagged down Liklia and asked about baths. She ran off to fill up their tubs.


“Come on, brother,” Frye said, patting Markle’s hair gently. “Let’s get cleaned up.”


Chapter 14