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

Frye led Markle out of the room and down the narrow stairwell. As he promised, the clientele downstairs had increased—if not in respectability, at least in numbers.


Without waiting to gauge Markle’s reaction to the patrons, Frye advanced on the innkeeper. Master Endova at the Rooster’s Cawlast night had been hesitant to allow them to perform. Frye had known he’d be able to charm the man to Frye’s way of thinking. Looking at this skinny fellow, Frye doubted his own skills.


“Good innkeeper,” Frye greeted with a bow.


The man grunted and narrowed his eyes. “What?”


“My brother and I wish to perform for your esteemed guests.”


An undignified scoff escaped the other man’s lips. “Esteemed, huh?” He gestured to the filthy masses that dotted his tables. “Go right ahead.”


Chapter 23