Friday's Curse Daughter of Two Worlds: Part 1

By D. A. Daugherty

Hollywood actress Sarah Friday had what she considered a normal life, with fame and fortune and all the pitfalls that came with it. One day, when she least expected it, she was pulled away from all she knew and found herself in a wholly different world. This is a world in flux, a world where magic is dying and the oldest secrets are being forgotten.

Now she must embark on an epic journey in search of answers. Where is she? Why is she here? How can she return? In divorcing herself from all she knows, she uncovers something far darker than anything she could have anticipated. That raises a question far more important than any other: is she strong enough to face what comes?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jul 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781662442803

Book preview

Chapter I

Unfamiliar Surroundings

It was the end of a long day, and I was settling in to take a bath in the bathtub of my trailer. As I did every day, I looked at the bottle of sleeping pills, wondering if that day would really be the day I finally did it. I kept them so close, always in reach, but I never had the courage.

That thought was gone from my mind when the bathwater turned cold and glowed red around me. I knew I should have jumped out, but I was far too stunned. As soon as I could act, I was pulled beneath the water. I wondered just what the hell was going on. I thought that maybe I was dreaming, but I could clearly feel the strange water’s chill and my own breathlessness. As soon as I started struggling against the pull, I was pulled out from behind and into the air.

I thought I’d find myself back in my trailer, but that was clearly not the case. The first thing I noticed about my new surroundings was that the strange glow of the water wasn’t gone, but it was slowly turning from red to blue. The light revealed a cave and the large stone basin I was now standing in. The most unusual thing in an already insane situation was what pulled me from the water.

They were tall spindly creatures with large black eyes and emotionless faces. They were covered head to toe in rough skin that looked like bark. Their heads were covered in small leafless branches. I spoke so automatically I barely knew I was talking out loud. What the…

I’d only just noticed them when I heard a voice from behind me singing with an unnatural clarity in a language I couldn’t understand. In response, the strange creatures grabbed my arms and held me tight. I tried to fight, but their grip was just too strong.

What the hell? Let me go! I shouted.

From behind me, I heard the same sophisticated voice. I understood him that time, and he spoke with an accent I recognized as British. I’m afraid they can’t understand you. Not to worry, though, madam. You will not be harmed.

He walked around the glowing basin until he was in front of me. The man was very well-groomed with dark hair and a goatee. He wore a black smoking jacket, a large ring, and an eye patch. I’d have found him very handsome if I was in any sort of position to think about that sort of thing.

What the hell are these things? What’s going on?

Ah, yes, I don’t blame your confusion. I can’t even imagine what you’re experiencing. These things, as you call them, are vlik, and they’re every bit as intelligent as you or I. As for why you’re here…well, I wouldn’t have summoned you if I had any other choice.

That doesn’t tell me a damn thing.

The man turned his gaze downward in clear regret. I suppose it doesn’t. The only thing I can tell you is that I need the blood of one from another world.

As much as another world should have gotten my attention, I couldn’t get past him needing my blood, especially when he took a vial and stiletto out of his pocket. I struggled against the vlik’s grip that much harder. You said you weren’t going to hurt me.

I didn’t lie. You will survive this none the worse for wear. Please stay still and this will be as painless as I can make it.

Unable to escape, I stopped struggling. My mysterious captor then quickly slashed one of my wrists and caught the blood in his vial. When it was full, he put it away so fast I could’ve sworn it disappeared. He hovered his now empty hand over the wound, and to my surprise, the ruby on his ring started to glow, causing a red energy to run from his hand to the cut on my wrist. The pain became a cold tingle, and I watched as the wound closed by itself.

What the fuck? I asked, completely stupefied.

There. Not even a scar. Now I wish I had the capability to send you home. The best I can do is to send you far away. It won’t keep you safe, but maybe it’ll give you some time.

Safe from what? I still don’t know what’s going on.

I wish I could tell you. I truly do. I want you to remember that I had only the best of intentions.

Before I could respond, the man’s ring glowed again, and he stuck it into the water. That water turned red again, and I was surrounded by energy. After that, the world seemed to dissolve into mist and then reform into something else. Not expecting it in the slightest, I fell to the ground when it was all said and done.

I now found myself in a dark alley surrounded by brick buildings. It was nighttime, seemingly late at night as I couldn’t even hear any activity. After several moments’ hesitation, I peeked my head into one of the adjacent streets. It was like looking back in time. I saw a wide cobblestone street flanked on both sides by gas-powered streetlamps. Fresh rain left the gaslight reflecting off the ground.

The scene was so unexpectedly beautiful that I didn’t hear the footsteps coming from behind me until the man who made them said, Nice night to be out, eh, ma’am?

I turned around and saw a man in a very official-looking uniform that reminded me very much of pictures I’d seen of old-fashioned police officers, complete with the shiny badge and weird helmet. I sheepishly replied, Yes, sir, it’s a wonderful night.

It seems you had an especially nice night. He then looked me over with a lecherous look in his eye.

Every moment since I was pulled into the bathtub had been so monumentally weird that I forgot I was taking a bath before all of it, and that I was still entirely naked. I covered up what I could and said, I don’t see how that’s any of your business.

It’s my business because we have laws about…exposure.

"Yeah, well…if I had any clothes, I wouldn’t be exposed."

The officer sighed. Lady, I have a job to do. According to the law, you have to spend the night in the drunk tank.

But I’m not even drunk!

For the last few moments, I heard the sound of footsteps accompanied by the clicking of a cane on cobblestone growing closer. A youthful but authoritative voice came from that direction. There you are, my dear! I’m sorry, is this constable bothering you?

I looked toward one of the side streets to see a handsome, almost regal man in a fully buttoned black trench coat with shining silver buttons. On his head, he wore a bowler hat and a pair of glasses. He rested his hands on a black cane with silver bands and a smooth white stone on its head. I had no idea who that man was, where I was, what was happening, or even if it was happening. All I knew was that I didn’t want to spend the night in a drunk tank.

I decided quickly to play along. You’re here…sweetie. He’s just doing his job. In a way that bothers me.

Well, he doesn’t need to worry about such unpleasantness anymore. Apologies, sir, my maid walked in on the two of us, and this darling woman assumed she was my wife. There’s certainly no need for anything disciplinary.

The officer sighed again. She broke the law. You can come get her tomorrow morning.

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Temm Laron of the Laron, Laron, and Page Trading Consortium.

I don’t care if you’re Laron, Laron, and Page at the same time. I’m not about to break the law for you.

The well-dressed man only nodded. A dutiful man. I respect that. He then held up his cane, and the head glowed faintly. There’s no trouble here. Continue on your patrol.

He glanced briefly at the glowing stone and said, Of course. Have a pleasant night, sir, ma’am.

As he was walking away, I asked my questions quickly, as if I couldn’t get my words out fast enough. Who are you and how did you just mind trick that cop?

I was quite forthcoming about my identity. As for the constable, I used magic—a rare thing in this age, I am quite aware. Speaking of magic, I’m here to investigate a magical disturbance, only to find you here entirely nude. Who are you, and where did you come from?

Before we get to all that, I feel like we should do something about that nudity. Do you mind if I borrow that jacket?

Not at all. He removed the garment and held it out to me. I said nothing, instead looking from the offered coat to the arm I was covering my chest with until he looked away.

After putting the coat on, I answered, I’m Sarah Friday. From…well, Los Angeles, I guess.

Los…Angeles? I’m not familiar with that place. How did you get here?

I sighed and shook my head. There was just so much to talk about, and I understood exactly none of it, so I just said what was on my mind. I don’t know what’s happening. Shit, I’m not sure if any of this is happening at all.

Can any of us truly be sure of that? Just tell me what you can.

All right, I’ll just go with it. I was in a cave with some kind of glowing well, tree people, and a man with an accent and an eye patch. That guy…I don’t know, teleported me here.

The only way the man’s expression changed was a slightly raised eyebrow. Fascinating. You and I will need to have a more in-depth conversation, but this is neither the time nor the place. I invite you to accompany me to my home, where we can get some rest and work this out in the morning.

At that time, I was lost, alone, exhausted, and as far as I knew possibly insane. I shrugged and said, Sure, why not? Because nothing bad ever happened to anyone after going home with a complete stranger.

You’ll find that your sarcasm is unfounded. As a scholar, it would behoove me to keep you unharmed.

That’ll have to do for now. Lead on.

As we were walking down those unfamiliar streets, I was struck by how foreign everything looked, but as strange as the gaslight and cobblestones seemed, what I saw next was far more unusual to me. I saw the moon come out from behind the clouds, and although it was the same pale white color I was used to seeing, it was far larger, and it was surrounded by an impressive set of rings.

Are those…rings…on the moon?

Yes, what of them?

Oh, uh…nothing.

By the time I finished with my awkward answer, we stood in front of a grand home more than large enough to be called a mansion, if not a palace. It was a place of grand architecture in the middle of an almost sarcastically large yard and surrounded by a wall that seemed more decorative than defensive.

You live here? Oh, that’s right. You own some consortium.

In truth, it’s my family’s consortium, he answered before touching his cane on the door, unlocking it. He then walked inside, and with a casual wave of the cane, the oil lamps lit themselves.

I looked around to see that my surroundings screamed luxury. Between the soft carpets, velvet drapes, and polished wood floors, it was clear exactly how much money this guy really had. I let out an impressed whistle. Not bad. A little old-fashioned maybe, but not bad.

Welcome, Ms. Friday, to Page Manor. Now I’d invite you to remove your coat, but considering the circumstances, it would be best if you kept it on.

No kidding. You mentioned something about resting? A house this size has to have a guest room or two.

Of course, there. He used his cane to point to a door at the top of a grand staircase, only for it to swing open. I myself will retire. I look forward to continuing our conversation tomorrow morning.

At that, we split up, and I made my way into that guest room. I was so tired I didn’t bother to even look around my surroundings. I was in bed in a matter of seconds. I’d had a long day, and that was before I was seemingly pulled through my bathtub and into another world. It was either that or I was dreaming. I’d find out very soon. The exact instant I closed my eyes, I was fast asleep.

When I opened my eyes again, I expected that I’d be in my own bed with the events of the previous night revealed to be nothing more than a strange dream. Instead, I found myself in the same unfamiliar room I went to sleep in. I heard some movement and looked up to see a matronly woman holding my host’s coat. Sorry, ma’am, I didn’t mean to wake you.

It’s all right. I should get up anyway.

Well, I have some clothes for you. They’re my daughter’s. They should fit you. Anyway, I’ll leave you to it.

True to her word, she left me alone to get dressed. I was disgusted to find that I’d been left an ankle-long skirt instead of pants. After putting everything on, I met the maid outside. Can you take me to…um…

Master Laron? Yes, ma’am, I can. He wants to talk to you. She then walked away, leading me through a long series of lavish hallways.

I was looking around, not seeing much activity, just a maid or two cleaning. Laron doesn’t live here alone, does he?

He does. Apparently, he needed his own space to study his magic. I would’ve thought he wouldn’t need a place so large he’d need an entire staff to clean it, but then again I’m not an heir to the richest family in Vanidon.

She stopped in front of a closed door. He’s in here. It’s some sort of lab. He keeps the staff out.

I hesitantly and quietly opened the door, not wanting to disturb someone working with magic. I had no idea what I would see inside, but there were no surprises. I saw shelves full of books and colored vials, all painstakingly organized, and a table of empty beakers. The only thing that seemed out of place was a shelf with a few candles and a worn figurine. On the far side of the room, there was a full body mirror with an ebony frame on the far wall with my host standing in front of it.

I saw it just in time for his reflection to be replaced with that of a short-haired woman in crude, revealing clothing. The only thing that seemed even remotely fine was an emerald necklace around her neck. This piece of jewelry drew my eye right to her very ample breasts. The man said, in a cold voice, I see you’re still enjoying your barbarian witch persona.

She crossed her arms and glared at him. What do you want, Temm?

I need to speak with the Grandmagister.

The woman laughed at him. Why would I ever even think about helping you?

Because I’ve found evidence lending credence to your theories.

She narrowed her eyes in a suspicious glare. Explain.

I couldn’t see the man’s face, but I could hear just a hint of smugness in his voice that led me to believe he was smirking. I met a woman who I believe came here from another world. One of the first things she described was a Wellspring.

Ha! I told you, and you didn’t believe me!

"I never disbelieved you. That would be the Collective, and I’ve stayed well out of their affairs. Unfortunately, that also means I don’t know where to find the Grandmagister."

Why do you want to find him? she asked doubtfully.

Because I want to talk to the magician who brought that woman here, both for the advancement of magic and because my new acquaintance would probably like to return home.

My heart skipped a beat when he said that. I still hadn’t yet wrapped my mind around where I found myself, so I hadn’t begun to even think about going home. Of course, the conversation continued while I was still in thought.

Fine, the woman said. "I’ll meet you in the Dolo Lounge in Romlaine. Don’t keep me waiting."

The reflection turned back to normal, and my host turned around and saw me. Ah, Ms. Friday. I believe it’s time we continued our conversation. My cook will be finishing breakfast now.

Excellent. I’m starving.

Well, then, follow me. There’s also something I want to show you on the way. As we started on our way down the hallways, he asked, How much of that did you hear?

All of it.

So you heard my theory that you’re from another world.

I nodded. Yeah. Based on everything I’ve seen, that seems right. The guy who brought me here even said something about it before he took my blood.

He took your blood? Did he say why?

He said he couldn’t tell me. It didn’t sound good, though. He sent me here to keep me safe.

Hmm. He opened a door and led me into a room with a huge table with a suitably unfamiliar map on it, labeled as Triland. So as someone from another world, you won’t recognize this.

No, I don’t. Wait, why do you have a war room?

Page Manor’s namesake was somewhat…martial. Even so, we are here. Ensral. We’re going to Romlaine in the mountains, at least to start with. The magician who sent you, you mentioned he had an accent. What did it sound like?

I luckily already had quite a lot of practice with an accent like that, so it was easy to replicate. It sounded like this.

He seemed a little taken aback by my performance, That is a rather impressive example of a Candranese accent. He paused for a moment, thoughtful. So this man is one-eyed, Candranese, and capable of teleportation, thought to be a lost art. What’s more, you mentioned he was with vlik, even though none have been able to learn their language.

He did. He said something in their language, and they listened. I think he was ordering them around.

Considering the state of affairs in Candran, I suppose it is little surprise that they would seek outside assistance. A splinter order worshiping Solarn, the god of justice, took over more than two centuries ago. The vlik are now facing extinction, leaving them quite desperate, I’m sure.

Let me guess. These guys are going to be a problem for us if we have to go there.

The man nodded. Their borders are closed. I anticipate that we’re going to need a guide. Luckily, I know of a Candranese mercenary who can do the job despite her…unpleasant reputation.

"Oh, that sounds promising. I almost want to say, what would possibly go wrong?"

I wouldn’t worry. I’m sure she’s quite professional.

Chapter II

Magic and Gunfire

Temm’s assurances weren’t convincing even when we weren’t standing outside a bar called the Bottom of the Barrel. Under normal circumstances, I would wonder who would willingly drink in a place with that kind of name, but considering we were in the middle of the bad part of town and could clearly see a man getting beat up by thugs, I didn’t have to wonder.

Inside, the place was seemingly uncharacteristically calm. The patrons were clearly going out of their way to stay out of each other’s business. All the patrons except one, who was at the bar talking to a woman with a long red mane and a brown leather jacket. The most obvious thing I could notice was her pants, the sight of which made me extremely jealous, especially considering how flattering it looked on her figure. The woman also had a revolver on her hip and a dagger in her boot.

Her accented voice was clearly frustrated as she told the man next to her, I told you what I’d do if you kept bothering me.

Come on, the man replied. I just want to buy you a drink.

You and I both know that’s not what you really want. Now go away.

There’s no reason to be like—

Before he could finish, she drew the gun at her side and shot him straight through the foot. The other patrons barely glanced in that direction in response to the sound. Next time I’m aiming higher and to the left, got it?

In too much pain to answer, he simply nodded and limped away. While that was happening, the bartender said, Hey! You know I hate it when you put holes in my floor.

Without saying anything, she put a few coins on the bar. The owner took it and turned his attention to his other customers. Temm chose that moment to approach her.

You must be Lerine.

Who wants to know? She looked to the man addressing her and said, Never mind, I know who you are. How’s your sister?

A former customer, I take it?

Yeah, and her I understand, but based on everything I heard about you, I never thought we’d even meet. What could you possibly need?

We need a guide.

We? That’s when she noticed me standing next to Temm. Now this is getting interesting. What’s your name?

Sarah Friday.

Interesting name you got there, Sarah Friday. So where’re you going to?

My mind went completely blank. I didn’t even know which way was up yet, and that left me tongue-tied. Luckily, the magician answered for me. Candran.

That got the woman’s attention, and not in a good way. "No. No, no, no, no. No. No."

One thousand lions.

She winced immediately, as if in a terribly sharp pain. She also took a quick look around conspiratorially, as if the whole world was watching. After an almost painfully long time, she very reluctantly said, Deal. When do we leave?

Immediately.

So no time to get drunk then? After an expectant pause, she sighed and held up a hand. Half now. Make it quick.

Do you truly think I would carry such a sum to a place like this?

No, you’re right. That would be stupid. You do understand I need to make some preparations before I go traipsing off to Candran?

Of course, the man answered.

Lead on then.

With that, the three of us left that shabby bar and went into the shabby streets of the slums outside. When Temm and I were walking those streets, some very shady people seemed to be stalking us, almost as though they were gauging the risks involved in robbing us. With Lerine by our sides, though, all those menacing people were nowhere in sight. It was as if they thought better of making trouble.

Before long, we found ourselves walking down much busier streets. I was almost run over by four separate carriages just trying to cross the street. It took seemingly forever for the three of us to make our way through the crowds until they started to thin in the upper-class part of the city. The mercenary looked at the massive homes and shook her head.

In this neighborhood again. I might as well live here.

In response, Temm sardonically said, And then your neighbors would leave you missing the slums.

Why do you think I live there?

At that time, we were walking into the foyer of Temm’s mansion. Wait here. I’ll return with your advance shortly.

He left down a nearby hallway, leaving me alone with the mercenary. So what is it with you two? she asked.

Oh, there’s nothing. He’s just helping me with something.

And what’s that?

I was afraid of having to explain what’s going on. I knew how unlikely it would be for other people to believe it because I didn’t even believe it really happened. Luckily, I didn’t have to answer, as Temm came back holding a very hefty bag.

Here you are. Meet us at the train station in two hours.

All right. I’ll see you then, boss.

As soon as she was gone, I said, So you just let her walk off with what I’m assuming is a lot of money without any guarantee she’ll actually show up?

Stealing her advance would destroy her reputation, ruining her chances of ever being hired by the consortiums—her primary customer base.

Still seems kind of weak to me, especially for someone like that.

Need I remind you that neither of us truly know her, rendering this debate moot? If you had anything to wager, we could make a game of it, but as it stands, all we can do is prepare for our departure.

I looked down at what I was wearing in resignation. So more borrowed clothes, huh?

Yes. Last night I instructed Tandelle, the maid you met, to assemble a bag for your upcoming journey.

Are there pants in that bag? I asked, almost desperately hopeful.

The man’s hesitation told me everything I needed to know. Unfortunately not. Our guide’s…style is effectively limited exclusively to the uniforms of fighting women. I sadly don’t know where we’d obtain some without delaying our journey. Is that worth the delay, do you think?

My hatred of skirts almost made me want to say yes, but finding out what was going on and possibly returning home seemed far more important. No, it’s not, but I’m not forgetting about my quest for pants, though.

Of course not. If it’s truly that important to you, we can look in Romlaine. Would that be acceptable?

That’s fine, thanks. So are we going to just wait around for a couple hours?

No, I would prefer that we leave immediately. Wait here. I will return with our luggage.

The man left, only to return with a pair of suitcases almost in an instant. As we were walking down those unfamiliar streets once again, I was deep in thought about why we were going to the train station just to wait, as opposed to waiting in the mansion. I was then hit by an epiphany. "This whole time, that’s been your excited face, hasn’t it?"

Pardon? I don’t know what you’re talking about.

You act all cold, but you’ve been giddy as a schoolgirl ever since we met, haven’t you?

To my surprise, the man actually smirked—more emotion than I’d ever seen on his face. I’ve never really been able to go on a mission of magical discovery before, and it’s a rare moment when I’m able to leave Ensral. I suppose that’s made me somewhat…exuberant.

If that’s your exuberant, I’m starting to wonder what you look like when you’re bored.

It took far less time to get to the train station than I was expecting. The building looked brand-new and seemed far grander than it needed to be. To me, the place looked more like a government building or a cathedral. In addition to being massive, it was also massively crowded with great throngs of people going about their business, each one with someplace to go or someone to wait for.

Before long, the two of us were sitting on a bench and doing our own waiting. After a while, Temm checked his pocket watch. It’s too early for Lerine to be here, if that’s what you’re looking for.

Oh no, I’m just people watching.

People watching.

Yeah, I always loved doing that even though I didn’t usually get much chance. I mean, I’m on a completely foreign world. It’s kind of comforting to know that people are still the same. Like there. I nodded to a woman looking frantically around the crowds. A mother looking for her lost child. Or there. I nodded to a man greeting two similar looking women. "Those two are sisters. He’s married to that one, but judging by the way her sister’s looking at him, he’s either screwing her too or she really wants him to."

Temm nodded respectively. Very astute. What about those two? He pointed at two well-dressed men shouting at each other and gesticulating wildly.

Without hearing what they’re arguing about, I can’t tell. Could be personal, could be business.

I happen to know that those two are business partners who loathe each other too much for it to be personal. They’re likely arguing about the same thing they always do.

And what’s that?

You see, those men represent the Growers’ Union. They’ve been trying to reopen relations with Candran for years, but their constant bickering has been very self-defeating.

So far as I knew, that man was speaking complete nonsense. I didn’t want a long-winded explanation, but I wanted to be confused even less. So wait, are these guys farmers or diplomats?

Neither. They’re traders who represent farmers. As Vanidon is ruled by traders, the diplomacy naturally falls to them.

Without expecting it, I heard Lerine’s voice from beside us. If this is the type of conversations we’ll be having, it’s going to be a long trip.

In unison, we both turned to look at her to see her with a suitcase and a bolt-action rifle slung over her shoulder. Is that truly necessary? the magician asked, referring to the gun.

You’ve never hiked the peaks, have you? Between the sabertooths, hawks, andos, and especially dolos, we might not be armed enough.

Fair enough. Shall we?

From there, we went through the boringly familiar process of waiting in line and getting our tickets. Before long, we were in our own luxurious first-class train car in the back of the train.

Not bad. I was expecting way worse, I said.

The cars ahead are exactly that. Hopefully, we won’t need to experience them, Temm said.

Wouldn’t that just be the worst? Lerine mused with some obvious sarcasm.

We then slipped into silence for a time until we departed. We’d only just started traveling across the open plains when the mercenary spoke up. I’m normally the no questions asked type of merc, but I feel like I have to ask. Why go to Candran? I mean, if you were those Growers’ Union idiots, I would understand, but not you.

While we’re answering questions, the magician responded, why are you so reluctant to go there?

The All-Judges, they find my nature offensive.

The All-Judges? That order you mentioned? I asked Temm.

Yes. The real question is why they find you so offensive, if you don’t mind my asking.

The woman scoffed, Yeah, it’s a good question, all right. With those fuckers, it could be anything. Although I don’t mind answering. I’m a homosexual, and I was almost killed over it.

Wait, you’re a lesbian? I asked, sounding surprised enough that I thought it might be rude.

"If that means what I think it does, then yes, I like women. Now that you know why I was so eager to get out of Candran, why are you two so eager to get in?"

I tried to think of a more rational explanation for what we were doing, but the previous conversation completely threw me off. That became unimportant when Temm answered, Ms. Friday here is from another world, and we are investigating how she got here and how to get her back.

The woman’s eyes went wider than I’d ever seen eyes go. Wait, really?

Yes, I answered with a hint of anger in my voice. But maybe we shouldn’t tell everyone that.

The man didn’t react to my tone. I never intended to, but you wouldn’t be able to hide your foreign nature from her for long, and she deserves to know.

You must be used to magical weirdness where you’re from. You’re taking this all really well, Lerine said with an approving nod.

What am I supposed to do? Scream my head off? Or maybe I should walk up to every random person and say, ‘Hello there, I don’t believe you exist’?

All right, maybe you have a point.

As for the magic thing, well…where I come from, there’s no magic at all, but our technology is centuries ahead of yours.

The magic user spoke up with obvious disdain in his voice. Sounds like a dismal place.

In response, the hired gun said enthusiastically, The nether with that! I want to hear more. What kind of technology?

I was somewhat taken aback by what I’d started, so it took a little while to put my response together. Well, we have horseless carriages that make this train look like it’s standing still, and great big flying machines. There are massive cities made of glass and steel and even devices that can put a library’s worth of knowledge in the palm of your hand.

Temm nodded. As tempting as that last is, it still seems as though you’re missing something…vital.

If he had anything more to say, the woman cut him off. Ignore him. That sounds amazing. So what did you do there?

I was reluctant to say for a reason I just couldn’t think of. I’m an actress.

Temm nodded in approval. A fine profession.

So did you have the money and fame of the good ones, or was it just pocket money on tiny stages? Lerine asked.

I was really famous. Like you could probably never imagine.

That sounds annoying.

I suddenly understood why I was so reluctant to mention it, and she hit that reason right on the head. Either way, it was a great reminder that not everything was peachy back home. Yeah.

The woman thankfully turned her attention back to the magician. So what are we actually doing?

The man who brought her here has a Candranese accent. We’re currently meeting with the leader of the Magicians’ Collective to find out who he is.

So you paid an amount of money almost large enough to be called a fortune based on an accent? She shrugged nonchalantly. Velsin knows I’m not about to complain about your dumb decisions. It still leaves me wondering about your motives, though.

He simply said, Maerl’s Endeavor, of course.

Ah, I forgot about that. I should’ve known you’d be a follower of Maerl.

As casual as their conversation was, I had absolutely no idea what they were talking about. So what’s all this? I asked.

Temm answered me, The pursuit of knowledge. The name refers to Maerl the Outsider, god of knowledge and my chosen deity.

After that, we slipped into another silence for a while. I watched the hills rolling by and considered what’d happened to me. Whether it was real or it was all in my head didn’t make much of a difference to me. The only thought that crossed my mind despite my attempts to suppress it was that my old life was over.

Sometime later, my grim contemplation was broken when we pulled into another town. It was a bustling inland town that wasn’t nearly as large as the sprawling city we just left. Among the teeming crowds of diverse people was a group of eight very shifty looking individuals with guns looking very eager to board the train.

When Lerine caught sight of them, she sat bolt upright. We need to get off right now!

Temm, barely paying attention, lethargically said, Why? This is only Oteron.

No time to explain. Off the train. Now.

With that much intensity, I wasn’t about to argue with her, so I stood up and followed her off the train with the magician reluctantly trailing behind me. We didn’t get very far before the very distinctive sound of gunshots cut through the dull roar of activity. What followed was an earsplitting collective scream coming from the panicked crowds as they scattered.

My mental state wasn’t any better than those people. I’d only fired a gun in a range and only heard those sorts of gunshots on set where everything was in total control. Now though, I was being shot at for real. I wasn’t thinking about the possibility of dying in that faraway world or how much it would hurt to get hit. The only thought that crossed my mind was how I needed to get myself to safety.

And so I ran, fueled by adrenaline. I was only vaguely aware of the others behind me. I barely noticed Lerine returning fire or Temm throwing benches and garbage cans at the attackers with a simple flick of his cane. These items were surrounded with a white glow as they flew through the air under their own power. I couldn’t really think about that, though, as my mind was consumed by the need to be somewhere else.

I very quickly found myself outside and around a corner. I only barely had the presence of mind to wait for my companions. As soon as they joined me, Temm asked, more frustrated than panicked, Why in Fenidell’s name are there people trying to kill us?

How about we survive first, all right? Lerine answered. She then ran for a nearby clothing store, followed by the both of us. Just as I was going through the door, a few bullet holes were shot into the building. I let out a scream and slammed the door behind me.

On the other side of the store, a man behind the counter shouted, What the nether is going on here?

The mercenary responded with the same amount of intensity, Get down, dammit!

By that time, the three of us reached the counter and ducked down behind it. Moments later, the door burst open, only for Temm to pull the first thug between us and our attackers. After the unfortunate man was shot to death by his own comrades, the magician forcefully threw him back at them. That created a bottleneck at the door that Lerine was able to take advantage of. She was able to kill four of them before the rest were able to spread out throughout the room.

Temm seemingly pulled a lightning bolt out of his cane and threw it at one of the men, throwing him against the wall hard. The mercenary shot another before the final man was able to find cover behind a shelf. From the other side of the impromptu battlefield, the final attacker said, I know how these odds look. Would you be kind enough to let me surrender?

Lerine stood up and trained her gun on the low shelf. Holster your weapon and throw your gun belt over that shelf. After he complied, she said, Stand up. Slowly.

He stood up fearfully with his hands up nonthreateningly. As soon as he stood up to his full height, the woman shot him in the head. I let out a small scream while Temm shouted, He’d surrendered! You had no reason to do that.

I had every reason to do that. He would’ve told his boss about you. Now when we take the fight to him, we have the advantage.

I was about to ask several much-needed questions in quick succession when the very rattled shopkeeper said, Get. Out. Before I get the constable in here!

We didn’t say a word. There wasn’t really anything we could say at that point. Temm led us out the door, and on the way out, Lerine grabbed the abandoned gun belt. When we were clear of the shop, she shoved it into my hands. Here. You’re a gunfighter now.

Given the horror of what I just witnessed, that matter-of-fact statement hit me hard. I understandably wanted no part of it. What? I don’t know how to use a gun!

It’s easy. Just point and shoot.

I feel like there’s a bit more to it than that.

At that moment, the magician pivoted and stuck the head of his cane into the woman’s chest, stopping her in her tracks. We’re not taking another step until you tell us what’s going on.

Sure, this is the perfect place, she replied with venomous sarcasm. Let’s take a little break a block and a half away from the scene of a massacre and talk. The police’ll just love that.

At least there’s a chance we’ll receive some answers.

I looked around nervously and interjected, I’m kind of with her on this one. Get shelter first. Kill each other later.

The man looked like he wanted to argue, but he only said, Very well, and turned down an alley.

After walking for a while down the mostly abandoned streets, Temm asked, Is there somewhere we can hide?

Well, I normally stay at Fano’s Flophouse whenever I’m in Oteron.

"If you normally go there, don’t we want to avoid the place?" I asked.

Oh, shit. That’s right.

Do you have any friends we can hide with?

Not ones who wouldn’t sell me out for profit.

That’s unfortunate, Temm said almost apathetically. He then raised his cane, which glowed with a pulsing white light, covering the man in what looked like white fire. After a few more pulses, I glowed with a blue shimmer so faint I could barely see it. Lerine glowed with a much brighter purple shimmer. Many more pulses later and there were many more human-shaped shimmers of various colors coming from nearby buildings.

What are those? I asked.

His voice still sounded distant as he answered, almost as though he was in a trance. Auras. Each one a different person. There. He pointed his cane at one of the buildings that lacked the glow of a person’s aura. We can hide out there.

We followed him through the front door after he used his magic to unlock it. Lerine looked around, admiring the quality furnishings. Well, I must say that there are worse places to hide out.

Now that we’re somewhere safe, it would be a good time for answers.

Why don’t we find somewhere to sit down? You’re not looking so good, magician.

It was at that moment I noticed the heavy bags under the man’s eyes. It looked as though he hadn’t slept in weeks. I understand that you’re stalling, he said, sounding every bit as weary as he looked. But I’m not going to argue your point.

We went through a few rooms before we found one that suited our purposes, a dining room. Temm and I sat at the table while Lerine started going through the cabinets. The magician took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes.

Are you all right? I asked in concern.

Magic takes its toll. I’ll be fine. After a short pause, he said, Lerine, we’re not here to steal the possessions of these people.

I looked over to see her looking through the cupboards. I’m not trying to steal their possessions. I’m trying to steal their booze. I haven’t been drunk all day. Then a bright smile lit up her face, and she pulled out a dusty bottle. She cleaned off the label. Ovoune whiskey, fifteen years old…someone has the good stuff. Probably saving it for a special occasion.

"And you think now is such an occasion?" Temm asked, annoyed.

"I’m not saving it. She popped the cork and took a sip, clearly pleased. Afterward, she held it out to the man. Care for a swig?"

No, but I guess the damage has been done, hasn’t it? He got up and started searching through the cupboards himself.

As this was happening, she offered me the bottle. I took it and took a sip of the smoothest liquor I’d ever tasted. You’re right about this being the good stuff.

Temm returned, poured himself a glass, and took a sip. Our unknowing benefactor does have good taste. After a few more moments, he took another sip and got to business. I believe you owe us an explanation on who’s trying to kill us and why.

Well…his name’s Rale Tommerson, the so-called Thief Prince of Oteron.

She sounded like she wanted to continue, but she didn’t. She only took a big drink from the whiskey bottle.

That answers who, I said expectantly.

He hired me for a little extra security on a…salvage mission. In someone else’s house. Anyway, he decided that I didn’t deserve my cut, so I decided he didn’t deserve anything.

You robbed him, Temm stated matter-of-factly. Can’t you pay him off?

Lerine’s response was very defensive. No! No, no, no. Even if I felt that fucker deserves the money…that’s no longer an option…since I slept with his wife.

After a few awkward moments, I asked, Why didn’t you warn us before we got here?

An excellent question, the magician commented.

With all the pressure on her, the woman sounded even more defensive. "I thought we were just going to pass Oteron by. That was the plan, wasn’t it? Should I warn you about all my enemies?"

How many enemies do you have? I asked in amazement.

How long do you have to hear about it? Because however long it is, I can guarantee it isn’t long enough.

Temm ignored the current direction of the conversation. I’m more interested in how this man found out we were coming.

Well, that’s easy. Someone must’ve overheard that we were going to Candran, figured out we’re going this way, and sent a telegram ahead of us. She shook her head in disbelief. And I thought people knew to mind their own business at the Bottom of the Barrel.

Your first mistake was drinking in a place called the Bottom of the Barrel, I pointed out.

What can I say, they never cut me off, she replied before taking a big swig of whiskey.

Temm spoke up next. As fascinating as your excessive drinking is, I think we need to get back on track. Do you have some sort of plan?

I took the bottle from the mercenary and took a drink. Why bother fighting at all? I feel we could just get out of town. And leave this thief prince guy none the wiser.

He’ll be waiting for me to do just that. Do you really think he knew what train we were on? No, he’s got people at the train station. We can’t go there.

"Then why don’t we go