Tough Luck

Gray leads us through a mist-filled alley, the scent of burning spices bringing tears to my eyes. “There, by the ferry,” she says over her shoulder. “Seeking passage to the Underrealm, no doubt.”

I see the shadowed canal where a barge silently passes by.

Ignoring the dock, Gray halts by a building, laughter and discordant music spilling out from screened windows.

“Ah. Tough luck.”

“What? Why?” Rach looms over my shoulder.

“That’s Akheron’s. The Bloodletter? We can’t go in there.”

“Why not?”

Gray laughs. “You like your blood, don’t you? Hmm. I have an idea that’ll also earn you coin.”