In another world, there is so much magic, the people see no reason to advance their technology. Their history has been altered as well, resulting in a barely recognizable twentieth century. Wes, however, doesn’t know anything else. All he wants is to live a peaceful life with his small family -- his ward Mica and his friend Ollie. For his part, retired assassin Ollie never wants to leave Wes and Mica, but when Ilixo shows up, Ollie may not have a choice. Ilixo, his Chieftain, has a necromancer to find and Ollie is the perfect person to go hunting. Wes has to make a choice. He can accompany Ollie and help him capture the rogue necromancer, but then they will have to leave Mica unprotected at home. Mica is vulnerable, as she is on the verge of discovering her magic gift, and needs gentle guidance to help her through the process. Or Wes can stay home, and let Ollie face the danger alone. Torn between Mica and Ollie’s best interests, Wes makes his decision. Will Wes and Ollie survive and return home? Will Wes realize his love for his best friend reaches far deeper than loyalty and respect? Will Wes and Ollie maybe even find love?

How Much?

“I thought that was your skill.” Mica turns to Randy, uncertain. “Isn’t it?”


“I assumed so,” Randy answers. “I don’t think I should have assumed so much.”


“That is my skill.” Wes looks at Ollie and his eyes encourage Wes to go forth. “That’s something I developed over time, with living and forming a connection with the world around me. Everywhere and everything’s seeped in magic so it was a…well, a skill that I had honed. That’s why it works with horses too.”


“And they’re clockwork!” Mica and Randy say together.


“Right.” Wes beams. “It’s by virtue of me working hard at it and living for a long time.”


Chapter 9