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

“Are you sore anywhere else?” The ties on their feet had been against the leather of their boots, but Markle could still be injured.


Satisfied, Frye nodded. He finally let his hands trail down Markle’s arms. His skin was soft, not dried out from the rays of the sun. He’d never spent time in the boats, baking in the harsh sunlight. He’d been forced inside, his hands taught to thread needles, wash clothes, and strum instruments. That gave him a few callouses, but also a sure grip. Frye intended to put that to good use.


Frye lifted the hem of his shirt and pulled it from his shoulders. He tossed it beside Markle’s.


Chapter 44