My phone buzzed at 3:42 am, jolting me awake. The police. They had found Mel’s lifeless body splayed across the pavement; limbs contorted against the unforgiving concrete. I was the last person she called. My ears rang, and my pulse… Continue Reading
To: Imperial Pets & Familiars ShoppeFrom: Tabitha, apprentice to the Wythia Coven I received my order, 1 cat. However, it doesn’t resemble the woodprint in your catalog. The ears are droopy, while its tail is short and springy. Its muzzle… Continue Reading
On the longest day of the year, three sirens with murder on their minds basked atop the immense, lichen-covered stone looming over their Greek island’s shore. Far below their perch, a dozen fishing boats bobbed atop the Aegean waves. Breathing… Continue Reading
Emran watched the shadow of the great Blackfish crawl over the parched earth towards him. “Finally. This is it…” Emran muttered, shifting from one foot to the other in unbearable anticipation. The watching crowd behind him echoed his agitation, and… Continue Reading
The massive metal door stood before him. Engraved on it were scenes from around the world, windswept plains and towering mountains, sprawling cities and rural villages. As his hand pushed it open, Arlan admired the engravings. He was an adventurer,… Continue Reading
Liji gulped as she approached the Eastern River’s sandy shores where the Dragon resided. Taking small steps, a numbing pain radiated from her bound feet, cramped inside her silk lotus shoes. Her mother adjusted the flower pinned to Liji’s hair… Continue Reading
Dear Esteemed Mr. Bentley: By now, news of what happened at the Bentley Alchemy Factory in Toaddeep Sound should’ve reached you. While individuals might describe the factory’s current state as “blown to the hells,” please be reassured that these are… Continue Reading
At Rodor’s signal, the executioner swung his axe. It cut through flesh and bone and buried in the wooden block with a vibrating thunk. The sorcerer’s head landed in the dirty street. Rodor gestured with one meaty hand for guards… Continue Reading
“And now, for our next act, please welcome to the stage… Gertrude, the Cleaveress of the Rhineland!” The attending crowd clapped politely as a stout and simply-dressed woman took the steps onto the circular platform. Spotlights of reflected candleflame lit… Continue Reading
The warder and the priest come before dawn to rouse me from shivering non-sleep. Heads shaved, barefoot, we are pushed from the gaol into the shadow of the cathedral. My fellow murderers are both men. The thin grey one rubs… Continue Reading