Dear Readers,

This fantasy story was originally written for the 2022 Open Novella contest based on the following prompt:

(39) "Fine, make me your villain".

As usual, comments, corrections, suggestions, and words of wisdom are welcome. If you do like a chapter, please click the little star. But regardless, thanks for reading!

Thanks to @YvonneKindle for critiquing and for assistance with cover design.

Bill