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

The dancer was responsible for this change in him. Now, a flicker of admiration added to the desire Markle already felt. His feelings for Frye were evolving.


I already said I wouldn’t fall for Frye, Markle reminded himself. Markle was only four days away from his new life. Frye was a wanderer. While the dancer had made this journey more bearable, this was not something Markle wanted to do for the rest of his life. He did crave a place where he belonged, friends and family who loved him and accepted him. Following the dancer from town to town would never satisfy him.


Not even if you got to play your lute every day, and perform for people who appreciated it?


It was nearly sunset when the next town appeared on the horizon. Actually, town wasn’t the right word. The city sprawled before them, more buildings in one place than Markle had ever seen. On top of that, a solid, fortified wall surrounded it. Guards moved atop of towers, and gates—open now—could close the entrances easily.


Chapter 21