Seonid was not an idiot. She knew what happened to a body subjected daily to the treacherous sweetness of her particular vice, the heady, careening slide into anonymity. She knew what it meant when the night tremors and sweats came earlier each day. She was no three-penny fool, mewling and lurking at the edges of alleys, hoping to … Continue reading No Three-penny Fool
"You brought her here? Are you insane?" Marna glowered at the three of them. This was not the reaction Callum had expected. "We thought you'd be pleased," he said, allowing a hint of vexation to creep into his voice. Had they not just found a piece of the puzzle? "Really." It was not a question. "Pleased … Continue reading Sanctuary
Callum was not the sort to be easily swayed by a beautiful woman, but something about this one captivated him. He followed her into a room bright with firelight and voices. She wafted through the room, breeze-like, drawing glances in her wake like dry leaves, and disappeared into a shadowy alcove. Following her, he drew … Continue reading The Scent of Apple
Vernía placed a small bottle and a single cup on the table. She was nervous, Callum realized. "I've drunk of Heart's Desire before. I don't understand how it will help us." He gave his sister a wicked grin. "Unless, of course, you think I need a good lay." "Callum!" Vernía shook her head. "Any hedge … Continue reading Deep Magic
Seonid's fingers, usually so nimble, fumbled with the buttons at the neck and wrists of her gown. She was careful not to brush the silk damask against the damp, mildewed walls. She opened the door, letting in a burst of raucous laughter from below, and slipped down the stairs without a backward glance. This post … Continue reading Damask
Christine Hanolsy 