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

It did seem as if the gods were playing a cruel joke.


“How far away is Grincewood?” Frye asked.


“I’ve decided I’ll walk you the whole way there. And during that time, I’m going to convince you not to sell your lute.”


Markle laughed mirthlessly. “My mind’s already made up.”


After half an hour in the baths, Liklia returned with towels and soft robes. Their laundry wouldn’t be dry before bed, but they were welcome to wear the inn’s garments until morning.


Markle waited until she left before quickly climbing from the tub and hastily wrapping the towel around his body. It was too short to cover most of him, but at least it hid his chest and lower parts adequately. He’d thought that Frye had tried to sneak a glance when he’d hurried from the confines of the tub.


Chapter 16