Date: 2000-01-01 05:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Harem; Fantasy; Magic; Westerns; Romance; Adult
Description: Doc Holyday never expected to be in a new world with a new name, but Lady Luck made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. Her deal came with perks; he gained the ability to heal and he could periodically avoid taking damage from any single attack. Lady Luck had assured him that the list of perks would grow over time. The offer also came with a major drawback, however— Doc had to help save the world. While that would be a tall order for anyone, Doc was never one to back down from a challenge. Luckily, pun intended, Doc struck it rich on a mining expedition, staking a claim worth more than the whole

Luck’s Voice

Book 2:

Cashing In

Daniel Schinhofen

Copyright © 2020 Daniel J. Schinhofen

No parts of this book may be reproduced in any form by an electronic or mechanical means – except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles or reviews – without the written permission from the publisher.

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarities to real persons, living or dead, are purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

Copyright © 2020 Daniel J. Schinhofen

All rights reserved.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-one

Chapter Twenty-two

Chapter Twenty-three

Chapter Twenty-four

Chapter Twenty-five

Chapter Twenty-six

Chapter Twenty-seven

Chapter Twenty-eight

Chapter Twenty-nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-one

Chapter Thirty-two

Chapter Thirty-three

Chapter Thirty-four

Chapter Thirty-five

Chapter Thirty-six

Chapter Thirty-seven

Chapter Thirty-eight

Chapter Thirty-nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-one

Chapter Forty-two

Chapter Forty-three

Chapter Forty-four

Chapter Forty-five

Chapter One

Waking to the sound of soft snores, Doc smiled. There was a soft, warm body pressed against his back, and another snuggled firmly to his chest. They sure were energetic last night, Doc thought as his hand lightly caressed Fiala’s stomach.

“Morning, Doc,” Lotus murmured in his ear. “Thank you for last night.”

“I should be thanking you and Fiala,” Doc replied softly. “I guess we all had cause for celebration, though.”

“Yes,” Lotus replied, kissing his neck. “Now we can all try to be respectable women if we want. I love that Lia gave us the choice.”

“Going to keep plying your old trade?” Doc asked.

“No. I haven’t since you left for the mine last time. Like Fiala, I found myself uninterested in anyone else who offered. It was becoming difficult, but now, it’ll be much easier.”

“He does ruin us, doesn’t he?” Fiala added in with a smile.

“To the core,” Lotus giggled.

“Oh… good morning, indeed,” Fiala purred when she felt something stiffen behind her.

The knock on the door brought them to an abrupt halt.

“Your water, sir,” Posy called through the door.

“I’ll get it,” Fiala said. “We need to get up, anyway. We have another tournament today.”

“A bigger tournament,” Doc said. “Well, bigger buy-in. Might have a smaller number of entries.”

“We’ll find out,” Fiala sighed as she climbed out of the bed and went to the door naked. Cracking it to glance out, she picked up the pitcher of steaming water and shut the door. “Come on, Lotus. No getting to stay in bed with him.”

Lotus sighed. Her fluffy red panda tail flicked back and forth as she climbed onto Doc, then over him. “Fine. I’m the guest here, after all.”

“A very welcome guest,” Doc said as he rolled onto his side and watched the two women take a bird bath.

“You are,” Fiala nodded, “but if I don’t get to stay in bed, neither do you.”

“You are playing today, right, Doc?” Lotus asked.

“Hundred dollar buy-in should see some of the bigger guns come in, so yes. I wonder if Goodman or Suez will show up?”

“They might not, but a few of their subordinates might,” Fiala suggested.

“That’ll be entertaining.” Doc sat up in bed as the women were finishing up. “I need to get some paperwork done before the start of the game, too.”

“The contract with Lia?”

“At the least. I also have to find out from Otto when I’m supposed to do the rite.”

“Rite?” Lotus asked.

“‘Rite of Heriz’ I think is what he called it.”

“What’s that?” Fiala asked.

“I’m not sure, but it’ll cement me in with the dwarves in town,” Doc said, stretching as he finally got out of the bed. “I wanted to stop by and see the milliner today, too. I hope he’s doing okay...”

Fiala’s smile ebbed a little. “Are you sure about him?”

“It’s the mercury he uses to make hats that’s driving him crazy,” Doc told her. “I’m certain I can help with that now.”

Fiala’s eyes softened. “Always wanting to help others...”

“It’s what Luck would have me do. Besides, I like him. He loves what he does, and so few people do.”

“The gnome?” Lotus asked. “He rarely leaves his store, I’ve heard. They say the last time he went into the general store, he insulted Goodman and was trespassed from there.”

“How does he get food?” Doc asked.

“I have no idea,” Lotus replied.

“All the more reason to help him out if Goodman hates him,” Doc said, taking the offered cleaning cloth from Fiala.

Lotus slowed in dressing, her eyes traveling over Doc’s body.

“Go on. I’ll be right down,” Doc told her.

Lotus smiled as she finished dressing. “Heh. Can we save that for later?”

“It all depends on how tonight plays out. I expect the final table to take all night.”

“Well, if it doesn’t?” Lotus asked.

“He loves it, and is as eager for it as we are,” Fiala said, turning for the door. “Besides, we can return the favor while he takes care of each of us.”

Doc watched them go and said a small prayer to Luck, thanking her for giving him the chance to be on this world. Exhaling deeply, he began to clean himself up, thinking about what else he had to do today to get his mind off the two beautiful women.

~*~*~

Fiala and Lotus were already digging into breakfast when he entered the private dining room. Taking his seat, he’d just picked up his fork when Lia came into the room.

“Morning, Lia,” Doc greeted her. “Did Ayla drop the contract off?”

“Just a few minutes ago,” Lia said. “Once you’re done, we can go to the courthouse to get it notarized. I expect Goodman will be here this afternoon, not for the tournament, but to see you.”

“Too bad I’ll be busy at the tables, then,” Doc chuckled. “Kind of like how he ignored me when I tried to see him after I got to town.”

Lia smiled darkly. “A mistake.”

“Yeah. Turning the Lily into a house of worship is going to make some waves.”

“The church of Apoc will be quite upset with you. Their priest might even have something to say about it.”

“Is that going to be a problem?”

“He doesn’t leave the church often, but he can use magic of some kind,” Lia said. “Not natural magic, either.”

“That isn’t surprising. We’ll deal with it when it comes time.”

Lia nodded and gave Lotus and Fiala a smile. “Ladies, thank you for your hard work last night. I understood why you wanted out early, but tonight, I’ll be using you both late to balance out the work with the others.”

“We understand, Lia,” Fiala said.

“I won’t have either of you on the final table if Doc is on it, though. Can’t have people thinking things they shouldn’t.”

Lotus nodded. “Of course, Lia. We’ll do what you need us to.”

Doc had started eating quickly, knowing that he had a lot to do before the tournament started. Lia watched him for a moment, then turned to leave. “Knock on the door when you’re ready, Doc.”

Doc just nodded, since his mouth was full.

~*~*~

Doc knocked and waited for Lia to answer. While he waited, his mind drifted back to last night and what he knew was on the other side of the door. Lia’s bedroom... clean and tidy, minus a few bits of clothing left on the bed. She’d probably not be very happy that I saw those...

The door opened a moment later, and Doc stepped back as Lia came out. “Sorry for the delay,” he apologized to her.

“No worries. I understand why.”

Doc nodded, then turned to head down the hall. “How does it feel to have that weight gone?”

“Liberating.”

“I was shocked at your sudden turn away from the previous business,” Doc said.

“I had no other way of helping them before. I don’t mind if they want to continue to make money that way, but I can give them another option— an option that will let them be seen as full members of society and not unclean women. It’s hypocrisy of the highest sort, considering it takes men visiting for them to ply that trade.”

Doc snorted. “People are good at hypocrisy.”

“True.”

Doc opened the door into the front room for her. As she went past him, Doc took a moment to give her an appreciative look. Her dress was green, tightly laced, and while modestly cut, it showed off her fit figure. Her heeled, green, scaled boots were nearly soundless as she walked.

The room quieted when they entered, though no one looked at Doc— they were watching Lia. Doc held his laughter in as he followed in her wake. Some women can turn every head and still every tongue just by breathing.

Stepping out the front door, they made their way to the courthouse. “Busier than I expected two hours before the tournament,” Doc commented as they walked.

“The first person to wait showed up two hours ago,” Lia said. “Some of them aren’t even there to play, just to watch.”

“Not surprised. The deputies handling security again?”

“The twins have agreed to be there for every tournament, but Grange can call them away if needed. It’s why Dillon and Joey will be on hand for that. I do need to find another one or two who can handle security, but finding trustworthy people is difficult in this town.”

“In any town,” Doc agreed. “I can ask Otto, if you don’t mind a dwarf or two?”

Lia’s lips thinned slightly. “I don’t have any quarrel with the local clan, but our histories haven’t been kind to each other. If you vouch for them, it would be fine.”

“Trust me that much?”

Lia glanced at him. “I can’t tell if you’re fishing or really uncertain.”

“A little of both?”

She laughed lightly. “You went out of your way to help me, Doc. I’ve never known a human like you.”

Doc felt a tug at his conscience. “You probably never will again...” he muttered. “Lia, we should talk later. If we’re going to be partners, I have some cards that should be on the table.”

“More?” Lia asked curiously.

“You’d be surprised.”

They’d reached the courthouse, so Doc didn’t say more.

The clerk had just opened when they walked inside. Looking at them with a slightly put-upon expression, she gave them a professional smile. “What can I do for you?”

“I have a contract to be notarized,” Lia said.

“Of course,” the owl bestial replied. Pulling a box out from under the counter, she waited.

Lia set the contract down and signed her name using the pen the clerk offered her. Lia then slid the contract to Doc and passed him the pen. Doc signed his name in the right spot before giving it back to the clerk.

“Oh, Doc, you need to sign this, as well,” Lia said, pulling out a second page and pushing it to him.

Doc took the offered page and gave it a quick read. “Oh, right. Almost forgot.” He signed his name and put the paper in front of the clerk while she worked on the first document.

The clerk sniffed, but didn’t stop in her task. When she finished with the first document, she set it aside and took the second one. Giving it a quick read, her eyes widened slightly, and she gave Doc a curious glance.

“Are you sure you wish this to be recorded?”

“I have to if I want to help others,” Doc replied.

“Very well,” the clerk said. “I do hope you know that trouble will come of it.”

Doc smiled at her concerned tone. “I know, but hard roads need to be walked. Besides, I’ll be able to help the people Whittaker refuses to help this way.”

The clerk stared at him for a long moment before she nodded. “Very well. I’d suggest holding off for a day or two before announcing anything. It’ll take that long for me to get a copy to the capital.”

“That matters?” Doc asked.

The clerk nodded. “It’ll make sure the paperwork can’t be ‘lost.’ There’s an extra fee involved for using the pigeons and making sure they return acceptance of the form.”

“We’ll cover it,” Lia said.

“Very well.” The clerk notarized the document. “The fee for both forms is two dollars. It’s five dollars to get the copy to the capital with the return acceptance, but I can send both of them for that.”

Lia placed seven dollars on the counter. “Paid. I’d like a receipt, please.”

The bestial nodded. “Give me just a moment.”

As she turned away, Doc wondered why the old woman had thawed so quickly. She’d been an ice queen the few times Doc had been in before. He gave Lia a glance and she shook her head slightly, tapping her lips with her fan. Doc nodded and held his tongue.

The clerk was back a moment later with two receipts, giving them each one. “I hope you’re both ready for what is to come.”

“We’ll be ready,” Lia replied. “Your husband, Adrian, how is he?”

The woman’s lips turned down at the corners briefly. “He’s not well and getting worse. If the healer has time, I’d be grateful.”

“He’s ill?” Doc asked.

“We don’t know why, and Whittaker hasn’t cared to see him.” Taking a deep breath, she exhaled roughly. “I fear he is dying.”

“Shit...” Doc said. “I was supposed to be in the tournament today. That can wait if you think he’s dying.”

The woman blinked at him slowly. “I can’t take you, but my daughter can. Thank you, healer. I’ll be right back.” Opening the gate on the counter, she left them in the office.

“I’ll do what I can to hold off the start, if possible,” Lia said. “You’re a good man, Doc.”

“I can’t stand by if someone’s dying and I can help them.”

Lia’s fan snapped open and she hid her mouth behind it. “Many do. Hurry, but not if it costs him his life.”

“I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

A throat cleared behind them and they saw the clerk and her daughter standing there. “Sophia will take you.”

Doc nodded and headed for the door. “After you, miss.”

Sophia, the younger of the two owl bestials, nodded. “It isn’t too far, healer.”

“Doc. You can call me Doc,” Doc told her as they walked down the hall. “What can you tell me about your father?”

“He has spasms that we can’t help him with, normally before or after activity. Sudden bouts of vomiting, sudden onset headaches, and occasionally...” she hesitated before saying the next part softly, “he seems crazed.”

Doc thought over what it could possibly be, but nothing came to mind with all those symptoms. “How long has he been like this?”

“A few years, but it’s been getting worse,” the young woman said sadly. “Can you really help?”

“I don’t know, but I’ll do my best, miss.”

“Sophia. You can use my given name.”

“Sophia,” Doc said.

Silence fell between them as they walked quickly away from the middle of town. It was only two streets over when she turned him toward a good-sized home. She went straight inside, and Doc followed once he’d closed the door.

“Father?” Sophia called out.

“Child? What’re you doing home? You’re supposed to be at work,” a weak voice called back to her from further inside.

“Mother sent me, and with a healer.”

“Whittaker? Finally?” The weak voice was filled with hope.

Doc followed her into a bedroom where a male owl bestial was laying on a bed. “No, sir. I’m Doc Holyday, a faith healer.”

Adrian stared at him with suspicious eyes. “Faith healer? Apoc says those are nothing but charlatans.”

“Well, the church is a little biased,” Doc said. “Your wife sent me. I’m here to help, if you’re willing.”

“Father... please?” Sophia’s voice was filled with anguish.

Seeing his daughter on the verge of tears, Adrian’s lip curled up, but he nodded. “Go ahead and try.”

Doc stepped to stand beside the feather bed. “Lady Luck, I ask you to help this man who has need of your attention,” Doc said solemnly, his hands glowing green as he spoke.

Both Sophia and Adrian looked surprised when Doc showed obvious signs of power. When Doc touched Adrian, he got a list of everything wrong with the man. Ulcers... interesting. I wonder why. Something wrong in his blood? Hm… an infection? No, it’s more like a poison, but what’s causing it?

Doc’s forehead creased as he used his gift cleansing to clean the poison from Adrian’s system. As he worked, Doc found the biggest concentration was around the man’s ulcers. Pushing on, he healed the man’s stomach last. Breathing hard as he finished, Doc swayed in place when the glow faded. He knew his energy was depleted, and that he’d used some of his vitality.

“Done.”

“Oh!” Sophia caught him as he almost fell. “Doc?”

“Sorry... took more than I thought it would,” Doc apologized as he let her guide him to a stool. “I’ll be fine in a moment.”

“I didn’t feel anything but warmth,” Adrian said with a snort, but his voice sounded stronger than before.

“There was poison in your system,” Doc told him. “You had ulcers, which is why it was getting into your blood.”

“‘Ulcers’?” Adrian repeated the word with suspicion. “What’s that?”

“A small hole in your stomach lining,” Doc replied. “It can be bad by itself, but something you’ve been eating made it worse.”

Adrian snorted. “Holes in my stomach? I’ve no holes.” He touched his gut over the blanket.

Doc sighed as he got to his feet slowly. “Believe what you wish, sir. I came because your wife and daughter asked.” Swaying slightly, Doc made his way for the door. “Have a good day.”

“Good riddance,” Adrian snorted.

Sophia glanced between them before she hurried after Doc. “Sir, please wait.”

Doc stopped at the front door. “Miss?”

“I’m sorry for him. What did you mean something was poisoning him? He eats the same things we do, and we haven’t had any trouble.”

Doc blinked at her, waiting for his brief double vision to pass. “The holes in his stomach let something into his bloodstream when it shouldn’t have been there. If you don’t have an ulcer, it wouldn’t affect you.”

“How did he get these… ulcers?”

“A few ways it could’ve happened— heavy drinking, smoking, or stress makes it more likely. If he’s had trouble for years, then you’d have to go back to before the first signs appeared.”

“He used to smoke and drink all the time,” Sophia said, “but that was nearly a decade ago.”

“It could have started then,” Doc replied. “I have a tournament to get to, Miss Sophia. If you’ll excuse me?”

“Sophia, get back here and leave that charlatan alone!” Adrian shouted.

Sophia blinked and looked back at the bedroom. “He can shout again...?”

“Glad to help. Thank Lady Luck— it’s her power that healed him. I’m merely the conduit.” With that said, Doc left the young woman staring at the bedroom doorway.

Chapter Two

Doc paused outside the milliner’s shop. I can’t heal him, not now, but I can do the other part. Taking a deep breath, Doc entered the shop. The bell jingled, letting the shopkeeper know someone was there.

“Hello?” Doc called out after a moment of silence.

“Hats! Wait!” the excited voice came from the back of the shop.

Doc’s lips turned up in a smile at the happiness in the gnome’s voice. “Gladly, sir. I don’t mean to rush you.”

A few moments passed and Doc took the time to look over the different hats on display in the front of the shop. One of them had Doc smiling— it was a bowler, but the decorative band spoke volumes to him. Picking the hat up, he checked the inside lining.

“Hat for you?” the voice of the proprietor asked from a few feet away.

“Perhaps a hat for me,” Doc replied. “Is it in my size?”

The gnome smiled. “Seven and three-eighths is that hat.”

“Same as my head, so a hat for me,” Doc said, “if the price is agreeable.”

“Hats to you, hats for you. Sell them to a good home,” the gnome laughed as he moved off to the counter.

Doc watched the odd shuffling jig-step of the hatter and hoped that another day wouldn’t be too long a wait.

“Hat works. Hat is happy,” the milliner laughed. “Two dollars and a half takes hat home.”

Doc pulled out the required coin, but he also placed a paper on the counter with it. “I’ll take the hat and gladly, but I have something for you, if you’re willing.”

The hatter blinked, his head drawing back as he poked at the paper. “Not a hat.”

“No. It’s the deed to the property,” Doc told him. “The bank was holding it, and Goodman was going to buy it.”

At Goodman’s name, the milliner’s lips drew back into an angry snarl. “Goodman!? Good not! Swine! Heel! Cad! Good for not is he!”

“Agreed,” Doc smiled. “I bought the debt, and I was hoping you wanted the deed.”

The gnome glanced at Doc with squinty eyes. “Price? Not hats, surely?”

“Discounts only, until the cost has been made up in the difference. For Luck’s Holdings.”

The gnome drew himself up to his full three-foot height and gave Doc a long look. “Wear hat?”

Doc took his old bowler off and put the new one on.

With a slow nod, the milliner’s smile came back. “Hat agrees. Deal is made.”

“My assistant will be by with the contract later,” Doc told the gnome. “She used to work for Goodman, but she’s free now.”

“Free of him? Good, good.”

“What’s your name?” Doc asked.

“Me? Name?”

“If you don’t mind. I’m Doc Holyday, owner of Luck’s Holdings.”

“Ah, names. Yes. Sorry. Hats don’t ask names. Hats are simple.”

“But honest,” Doc added sagely.

“Always honest,” the gnome agreed with a wide smile. “Sigmund Hutmacher, my name be.”

“A pleasure to meet you. I have a tournament to get to, but I had to see you first. You need to get that notarized as soon as you can, so Goodman can’t try to claim it’s not legal.”

Sigmund nodded. “See Elta at the court. Go. Cards wait. Hat brings luck.”

“I do believe you’re right,” Doc grinned. He paused and touched his older hat. “Can you…?”

Sigmund looked at the hat on the counter and nodded somberly. “Good home, I will give it.”

“Thank you. It’s been with me awhile, but I only have room for so many.”

“Hello,” the gnome said softly as he picked up Doc’s old hat. “Would you like to make some friends?” With his unusual gait, the hatter took the old bowler into the back.

Doc glanced at the money and deed on the counter, hoping it’d be safe to leave them there. Shaking his head, he went to the door and switched the open sign to closed before leaving. Hopefully, that’ll work until he remembers. I’ll come back tomorrow and see about helping him with the mercury poisoning.

~*~*~

The Lily was packed when Doc got back to it. Dillon and Joey were near the door wearing casual clothing, each with a gun on their hip. Near the bar, the deputies were watching the room, and Cassia was serving drinks.

Doc made his way to the far edge of the bar and waited for Cassia to make it down to him. “Didn’t expect it to be this busy,” he said.

“I doubt they’re all going to join,” Cassia replied. “Drink?”

“Beer for now.”

“Right.” Cassia pulled one and set it in front of him. “And thank you, Doc. Lia is the closest any of us have to a good mother figure, and we were worried about her.”

“Well, I know someone who will have an amazing mother in their life,” Doc smiled, motioning to her belly.

Cassia was grinning as she went back down the bar to serve others.

“Doc, you going to be joining us?” Raymond asked, coming over to him.

“Well, I did give Lia my money after winning the tournament weeks back,” Doc replied. “I know you’re in already, too.”

“Yes, indeed. I’m a bit worried, though,” Raymond said. “Kiddum is here and looking to play.”

Doc followed Raymond’s gaze to a serious-looking man with twin revolvers on his hips. His sandy hair, icy-blue eyes, and a thickly-waxed mustache would’ve made the man memorable on their own, but the jagged scar from the corner of his lip down his jaw did even more.

“Fast draw, and Suez’s right hand,” Doc murmured.

“He’s killed a dozen men. All legally, too,” Raymond said. “Get on his bad side and a duel will be called, if he can find a reason, and any insult to him is a reason.”

“Good to know. Anyone else I should be aware of?”

“Justin Smythe over there. Rumors say he can switch cards even with people watching. He works for Goodman, and no one’s ever been able to prove the rumor.”

“Hope I don’t end at the same table as him, then.”

“He’ll probably be around for the last table,” Raymond said.

A shadow eclipsed the entrance for a moment, and Doc glanced over to see Grange standing there. Grange looked around the room before moving to the bar. He gave Doc a cold stare, but didn’t speak.

“Grange doesn’t like you?” Raymond commented.

“I still don’t know what I did to earn that ire.”

Another person entering the building caused a small commotion, and Doc looked back to the door to find Mayor Goodman there. Goodman looked around for a moment before locking eyes with Doc. Nodding, Goodman headed in his direction. Doc leaned back against the bar and waited.

“Mr. Holyday, if I might have a moment of your time?” Goodman asked in a friendly manner.

“I’m waiting for the tournament to start, Mayor. Seats fill up fast. I can’t leave without the chance of missing it.”

Goodman’s false smile dimmed. “I thought you’d won a previous one and paid your way into this one already.”

Doc chuckled. “Well, hell, you got me there. I just hate missing a single hand.” Turning his head, he looked over to Cassia, who’d been casting looks at them. “Cassia, is the private dining room open for me to use?”

“It should be, Doc.”

“Thanks. Mayor,” Doc motioned the man toward the door, “this way.”

All eyes in the room watched as the two of them entered the back hall. Conversation broke out as soon as the door was closed behind them. Posy was in the hallway and she watched the men with wide eyes.

“Posy, will you bring the best wine the bar has, and two glasses please?” Doc asked her as they passed.

“Yes, sir,” Posy replied, dipping a curtsy.

The mayor snorted as she left, and Doc’s opinion of the man dropped further. Entering the dining room, Doc motioned the mayor to pick his seat. Goodman took the first one available, then waited for Doc to sit.

“Mr. Holyday, what is the meaning of your business yesterday?” Goodman asked in a tight tone.

Doc’s lips twitched upward, but he held up a hand. “A moment, Mayor. Posy will be back with drinks shortly, and business should wait until refreshments have been offered.”

Goodman’s eyes narrowed, but he didn’t say anything.

Posy was back with a bottle, corkscrew, and two glasses after another minute. She set them all in front of Doc before she curtsied, left the room, and closed the door behind her. Doc picked up the bottle and opened it, serving them both. He made sure to take a sip before sighing.

“Now, Mayor, what can I do for you?”

“I returned to my office today to find my secretary gone, several deeds that had been held as collateral having been purchased, and those deeds having been recorded with the clerk. All of this was done by you.”

“I didn’t record the deeds,” Doc corrected Goodman.

“Where did you get that kind of money?”

“I thought you’d have done a little more homework,” Doc said. “I own a mine. It brought in some minerals that same day.”

“None of the mines here in town, even my own, can bring in that kind of money,” Goodman said frostily.

“Your mine doesn’t have mythrium or soul stones, does it?” Doc asked in a jovial manner.

Goodman’s nostrils flared. “Preposterous! The dwarves have been looking in these hills for years and never had a single hint of either.”

“What can I say? My mine has both, though there’s some debate about there being enough for a second windfall.”

“And you threw away your first one on buying deeds and giving them away?”

“Giving them away?” Doc asked. “Why would I do that?”

“Because you don’t hold those deeds anymore.”

“True. The contracts should be getting notarized about now, though,” Doc said. “Each of those transactions came with a contract to my business, Luck’s Holdings. Business is about forward planning, after all.”

Goodman nodded slowly. “I see... I hadn’t heard about contracts. That makes more sense. You wish to become a man of business in town? That puts you on the same field as myself and Suez.”

“I notice you don’t mention Brand.”

Snorting, Goodman shook his head. “I purchased his dying mine from him last night. At the time, I’d only heard that you had purchased the debt of this place and owned the deed.”

“No. Lia and I have entered into a partnership of the Lily. The paperwork to turn it from a brothel into a gambling house should be done by now, too.”

Goodman’s lips thinned. “Trying to compete with my place?”

“Not really,” Doc said. “It’s just that a gambling hall fits better for us, overall.”

“I see. Very well. I’ll be interested to see what you do next, Mr. Holyday.”

“Thank you, Mayor,” Doc said, sipping his wine. “Please at least sample the wine.”

Goodman picked up the glass and swirled the red wine for a moment before sipping it. “Your partial ownership here... would you consider selling it in the future?”

Doc grinned. “Well, it does come with some mighty fine perks that are hard to ignore.”

“I’m not interested in those. I’m not as… free-spirited… as you are.”

Doc heard the insult behind Goodman’s carefully chosen wording. “Well, variety is the spice of life. I can’t say I wouldn’t sell, but at the moment, I’m not interested.”

“I see.” Goodman took another sip before setting the glass down and standing. “Good luck with your tournament today.”

“Thank you, Mayor, but Luck is always with me.”

Doc followed Goodman back to the front, where people were already taking seats for the tournament. Cassia waved Doc over to the bar and handed him his rack of chips, pointing him to his table.

“Thanks.”

Heading toward the table he was supposed to be at, Doc caught sight of Grange following Goodman out the door.

Chapter Three

Doc took his seat at his table alongside Raymond; Kiddum; Lia’s friend, Patrick Walker; Justin Smythe; Klomin from the Gold Strike tables; and a few other people he didn’t know the names of.

“Talk about a stacked table,” Doc chuckled as he took his seat on Jasmine’s left.

Jasmine shook her head. “I don’t appreciate that kind of comment anymore.”

Doc blinked, then chuckled. “Sorry. A stacked table is a table with a lot of good players at it, Jasmine. I didn’t mean that to sound like it did.”

Jasmine cleared her throat. “I apologize.”

“No fault, no foul,” Doc replied.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you before,” Kiddum said, eyeing Doc.

“Doc Holyday. I’m relatively new to town. Only been here about a month.”

“He’s played at the Gold Strike,” Klomin said. “Good player.”

Kiddum nodded. “I’ve played against Klomin. If he says you’re good, I’ll keep my eye on you.”

“I’ll try not to disappoint.”

“We’ve finished accepting players. We fell short of the maximum,” Lia announced. “Eighty-one players are in. Can I have the tenth seat of each table move to the ninth table, please? That will start you all even. As for payouts, we have three thousand for first place, two thousand for second, one thousand for third, and five hundred for fourth. Dealers, the time is now. Shuffle up and deal.”

A commotion about the payouts went around the room, but Lia had still been clearly audible to everyone. Jasmine gave the table a broad smile as she opened the new pack of cards.

Sliding the dealer button in front of Doc, she addressed the table, “Good luck to you all. This is no-limit hold’em. Due to the fact that there’s no limit to your bets, you’ll have to be clear when you bet or raise. The big blind is a dollar, and the small is fifty-cents. Any questions?”

“Are you available after the tournament?” Kiddum asked, his smile pulling at the scar and making him look deranged.

“I’m no longer on the menu,” Jasmine said evenly. “As it is, every dealer will be occupied well into the evening.”

Kiddum snorted. “Uppity beast, aren’t you? Should be glad a real person is showing an interest.”

Doc frowned minutely, but he kept his mouth shut. Jasmine gave him a frosty look, though when she spoke, she said civilly, “The proprietors of the establishment have told all of us that if we’re verbally abused, they’d be glad to have that person ejected and banned.”

Kiddum’s smile vanished and he glared at Jasmine. “Have it your way. Just deal.”

Doc made a mental note to ask Lia about what rules she had in place, as he hadn’t been aware of that rule. As Jasmine dealt the first hand, he found himself looking at a two-seven off suit. When the bet came around to him, after being raised by Kiddum, he silently folded.

“Not going to play?” Kiddum snickered.

“I don’t stay in with broken trash,” Doc replied with a shrug. “Considering your bet, I’m guessing a pair or high-suited run.”

Kiddum’s eyelid twitched. “You’ll just have to wait and see.”

The hand progressed, with Kiddum the last one standing— he’d bet big on the flop, driving the others out. Raking in his modest pot, Kiddum laughed and ordered a whiskey from the server when she came over.

“So, Holyday, what do you do?” Kiddum asked as Jasmine collected the cards and began to shuffle.

“I’m the owner of Luck’s Holdings,” Doc replied.

“Never heard of you.”

“We just started up a short time ago.”

“Doesn’t say much, does it?” Kiddum asked Smythe, nudging the other man.

“I believe he’s the reason all the dwarves left the mines,” Smythe said.

“They just found a different mine to work at,” Doc shrugged. “It just so happens that they work for Luck’s Holdings now.”

Kiddum frowned. “You wanted to work with those short, shifty fuckers?”

“Hard-working and industrious workers, you mean?” Doc asked. “Yes. When it comes to mining, you’d be hard-pressed to find people more knowledgeable than them.”

“What I haven’t heard is where this mine is or what you’re pulling out,” Smythe said. “Considering all the dwarves that left, it’d have to be gold or better.”

Doc chuckled as he checked his newly dealt hand and saw a pair of aces. “It was gold mostly, though we did find a small vein of mythrium.”

Smythe snorted. “They’ve been looking for that since this town was founded. We’ve seen no signs that there’s even a small vein in the area. They must’ve gone mad, but they do say dwarves would sell their mothers for a single ounce of that metal.”

Doc’s lips twitched, but instead of replying, he waited for the bet to come around to him. Raymond raised it before Doc could.

“Hmm… I’d have to go three dollars with this,” Raymond said when the bet came around to him.

Kiddum checked his cards again before mucking them to Jasmine. “I guess even I won’t play every hand.”

“Must have had what I did last time,” Doc said. Smythe called Raymond, but didn’t raise the bet. The others between Smythe and Doc folded. “Three to me. That’s a good place to start, but let’s make it ten instead.” Doc pushed the single ten-dollar chip in.

The next few people folded, until it came back around to Raymond. Raymond stared at Doc for a long moment before sighing, “Still can’t get a read on you. Fold.”

Smythe snorted, “No one else have balls?” Kiddum shifted in his seat and Smythe cleared his throat. “I guess it’s just us, Holyday.”

“If you call,” Doc replied.

“Raise, instead,” Smythe smirked. “Let’s say... fifty.”

Doc just sat there as Jasmine took the bet into the pot. He watched Smythe, but didn’t see anything to indicate what the man might have. “Fifty it is.” He slid four more ten-dollar chips forward.

“Surprised you stayed in. Maybe you have guts, after all,” Smythe laughed.

“Two heads-up into the flop,” Jasmine said as she burned the next card before dealing three into the middle of the table. With a glance at the players, she flipped the three cards over for all to see.

Doc didn’t react when he saw another ace, as there was also a king and queen— all suited— now staring up from the board. Smythe shifted a fraction, his face impassive.

“Smythe, the bet is yours,” Jasmine said.

“Huh. It was good enough last time,” Smythe said as he counted out fifty and slid them forward.

Doc’s mind raced as he considered what Smythe might have and what the shift in his seat could have indicated. Maybe picked up trips with the king or queen…? He might have a pair with one of them and a decent high card, or he has the last ace and one of them. Worst case for him is if he has another pair and the board fucked him, but that might’ve given him a flush out.

“Doc, it’s fifty to you,” Jasmine prompted as he sat there in silence.

“Fifty was good before that hit the board,” Doc said evenly. “Now, it’s a different game.” He watched Smythe as he talked. The other man’s eyes darted to the board, clearly doing the math on what Doc might have. “Let’s make it a nice even one hundred.” Picking up one of the hundred-dollar chips he had, he pushed it in.

Smythe thought about it before shaking his head and tossing his cards to Jasmine. “No. Too many outs for you.”

Doc just shrugged and waited for Jasmine to slide the chips to him. “Same might’ve been true for you,” he said once the pot had been declared his and he started to stack his new chips up.

“Aren’t afraid to go up against it? Good,” Kiddum nodded. “Man needs to have a fucking set on him.”

Smythe bristled, but clearly wasn’t about to call Kiddum out.

~*~*~

Play continued for another hour, with Doc staying out of most hands unless he had a truly good pocket pair. The nameless players dropped one by one until only Kiddum, Smythe, Walker and Raymond were left, leaving Doc as the short stack at the table.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Lia called out from the bar, “we’re going to call for a fifteen-minute break as we rearrange the tables and up the blinds. Please take this time to refresh yourselves. Dealers, secure your tables.”

As everyone rose to go use the outhouses, Doc stayed seated. When it was just him and Jasmine, he exhaled. “How’re you holding up?”

“This is more nerve-wracking than I had anticipated,” Jasmine replied.

“Because of Kiddum?”

“I keep waiting for him to call one of you out,” Jasmine nodded.

“Won’t be me,” Doc told her.

“Doc, do you have a moment?” Lia asked after approaching them silently.

“For you, always,” Doc said as he got to his feet.

Following Lia through the door behind the bar, he took a seat in her office and waited for her to say what was bothering her.

“I heard Goodman came to speak with you.”

“He did. He knows and is unhappy, but he looks like he’s going to wait a bit to move.”

“Did he ask for anything?”

“About my interest in the Lily.”

Lia exhaled softly. “And?”

“I told him I had no interest in selling, though I did slow play him and hint I might in the future, but between us, I’d never give him the satisfaction.”

Lia’s lips twitched. “I see.”

“Why does he want it so badly?” Doc asked.

“This building was the first to be built in town. It sits on the site of my clan’s tribal hall. This is the nexus of nature energy that runs through this valley.”

“Ah,” Doc said, but it was clear he didn’t understand.

“Doc… you aren’t from here, are you?”

“No,” Doc said, deciding to go for honesty. “I was brought here by Luck.”

“Another world?”

“Yes, and no…” Doc scrubbed at his face for a second. “This world is similar to a period of history from my world... well, minus the elves, dwarves, magic, and stuff. My world only had humans and animals. No bestials, either.”

“The game I’ve introduced to them?”

“Hold’em? It’s a type of poker from my world. One of the most popular, in fact.”

“I see. That’s why you were so certain it would work.”

“Yeah.”

“This is what you wanted to speak with me about earlier? The fact you are from a different world?”

Doc winced. “Yes and no, again.” Swallowing, he went to stand a few feet away from her. “You called me human, and I know I look like one. I made sure I did when Luck granted me a new body, but I’m not human at all, not since I came here. I’m a half-elf and half-dwarf.”

Lia blinked at him. “That’s why you’ve been able to survive the dryad?”

“Maybe, but that was more the healing I got from Luck.”

Lia reached out and touched his ear gently, feeling the cartilage. “Yes, I can feel it now.” After a second, she snatched her hand back like it’d been burned, her cheeks heating. Turning away, she snapped her fan open and fanned herself. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to do that.”

Doc coughed, as the sensation of her delicate fingers touching his ear had brought him to full attention, and he hadn’t expected that. “Um, yeah. It’s fine.”

“Is this why you’ve been okay with my girls and making deals with the dwarves?”

“No. That’s because I don’t have the prejudices that people from this world have. Hell, on my old world, there was a whole section of people that wanted to be with elves, dwarves, or bestials. I’ll admit I was part of that group.”

“I see,” Lia said, still facing away from him. “Does anyone else know?”

“Not even Fiala, but I was going to tell her soon. I can’t have the important people in my life not knowing.”

“Important people...” Lia murmured. “You value honesty and don’t want to hurt those you care for?”

“Honesty, trust, and communication should be the pillars of any relationship, be it personal or business,” Doc said. “I’ve always thought that, even when it’s cost me relationships or a job.”

“I see. I… maybe later. I shouldn’t keep you,” Lia said, still facing away from him.

“Sure,” Doc said, picking up on how awkward the moment was for her. He headed for the door, but couldn’t help himself. “Lia, when you led me through your room the other night… umm… I have the vision of a dwarf. I’m sorry.” Shutting the door behind him, he exhaled and went for the front of the building. Okay... hope she’s not going to be too mad about that, but I need to focus on the tournament.

Chapter Four

Doc rolled his neck when the next break was called. Four hours in, and the field had been reduced to eighteen people. He hadn’t expected Lia to break up the table he’d been at during the beginning, but he’d been glad for it.

As the afternoon wore on, Doc managed to slowly chip away the people at each different table he’d been to. He didn’t win a pot big enough to cause a commotion, unlike Raymond, Smythe, and Kiddum, who’d all pushed all-in multiple times.

Lotus gave Doc a wink when he went past her. She was serving drinks, no longer dealing since the field had dwindled. Doc gave her a grin and looked for Fiala, but didn’t see her in the room.

“More of an endurance tournament than I expected,” Kiddum said from behind Doc.

“Hold’em is all about endurance at the table,” Doc said as they both headed for the trio of outhouses behind the Lily, “though you’re the chip leader, or close to it, from the commotion I’ve been hearing.”

“Been having a good run,” Kiddum replied. “I’m surprised you’re still in, considering where you were during the first break.”

“I was able to rebuild some once I got away from the three big stacks.”

“Only two tables left. Probably be seeing you after this break.”

“It’s possible, but I hope not. I’d like to see the final table,” Doc laughed.

“Even if you do, I’ll still be taking the win,” Kiddum replied.

~*~*~

Doc had just made it back to the front of the Lily when Otto called out to him, “Doc! A moment, please?”

Doc turned to the barber, who was not dressed in his usual attire. “What’s the matter?”

“Nothing. I have word back from the elders. They settled on the eighth for the rite. Just come to my shop in the morning, and don’t eat anything before you do.”

“They agreed? I didn’t expect to hear back from you this soon.”

“The clan owes you too much for it not to be handled swiftly. I’ll see you then.”

“I’ll be there,” Doc said, clapping Otto on the shoulder. “Thanks for helping me out.”

Otto’s smile became strained. “Doc… very few non-dwarves survive the rite. I know you have a few things that might help, but… I’ll pray for you.”

Doc felt that same tug at his conscience he’d felt with Lia and nodded. “After the rite is over, I should probably talk to the elders.”

“They expect to speak with you then, anyway,” Otto said. “They have to for the rite to be completed correctly.”

“Oh, before I forget— who would you recommend seeing about having the Lily expanded and attached to the building beside it?”

Otto paused, sucking at his teeth. “You’d want the best, which means the Beavertons. Lia knows them.”

“I’ll talk with her about it. Thanks, again.”

“Thank me after the rite,” Otto said somberly.

“I will then, as well,” Doc said. “Have a good day.”

“Good day, Doc.”

Walking into the gambling hall, Doc was stopped by Fiala. “Doc, you’re at table one with Jasmine again. First seat.”

“That works for me,” Doc said. “How’d you do today?”

“Fine. I was the one giving the dealers a rest after the first break.”

“Except for my table,” Doc said.

“To make sure no one can complain,” Fiala nodded.

“I hope this doesn’t run all night, but it might. Don’t feel like you need to wait up for me. I’ll wake you when I come to bed.”

Fiala smiled. “It’s still early, or do you really think it’ll slow down that much?”

“It will, if not before the final table, then during the final table. Everyone there will be trying to be in the final four spots.”

“We’ll have to see,” Fiala murmured, “but I’ll do as you say. If it starts to get late, I’ll retire and wait for you to wake me.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, we have eighteen players remaining,” Lia announced. “Please, find your seats. The dealers can point you to which one is yours. Everyone else, we remind you to not crowd the tables— you will be thrown out if you do. We’ll be starting back up in one minute.”

Doc went to his seat beside Jasmine, making a mental note of how the expansion should be laid out. Lost in thought over what he wanted the Lily to look like, Doc didn’t pay much attention to who else was at the table with him.

“Doc— ah, someone already told you,” Jasmine said when Doc sat beside her.

“Huh?” Doc asked, blinking.

“Never mind. You picked the correct seat,” Jasmine said with a sardonic smirk.

“Sorry about that, Jasmine. How’re you holding up?”

“Well. Lia giving us breaks every half hour has made it much better. While you all can come and go, we have to be here until we’re tapped out.”

“It’s why I suggested it to her,” Doc said. “Keeping the dealers sharp is important.”

“I still dislike the blinds going up every break,” someone said.

“Makes the people with fewer chips gamble or just bust out on blinds,” Doc said offhandedly. “It’s an important part of tournament play.”

“Dealers, resume play,” Lia announced.

Jasmine smiled as she spread the cards face up in front of everyone, showing them the deck had all the cards it should. “Blinds are now four dollars and eight dollars.”

“At least they don’t keep doubling,” the person sighed as they pushed the eight dollar big blind into the middle of the table.

“That would be interesting,” Raymond said, pushing his four dollar blind in.

“I’ve been in tournaments where they do,” Doc said. “A static increase works fine here. For the yearly tournament, they might be doubles.”

“Doubt I’ll be in that tournament unless I can win this one, or at least second place.”

“Most people are in that boat,” Doc said as Jasmine finished shuffling. “Good luck.”

Doc waited for his two cards to come around, and upon checking them, shook his head. When his bet came around, he just slid the cards back to Jasmine.

~*~*~

Doc folded another hand and sighed. Another hour had almost passed and he’d had nothing of note to bet on. His chips had wavered slightly up and down during that time. Only four people had been eliminated during the hour, as well, meaning it would be another one or two before they had the final table set. The sudden raising of voices from the other table got Doc’s attention in a hurry.

“Say that again, you fucking coward,” Kiddum said with menace as he stood up from his seat.

The man Kiddum was focused on stood up. “I said you’re cheating.”

Kiddum’s lips pulled back into a feral smile, his scar making it an unholy sight. “I challenge you to a duel, then. Outside, right now.” The room had gone dead quiet, as everyone here knew about Robert Kiddum.

The man who’d been challenged just laughed as he motioned to the door. “You first. I don’t trust you at my back.”

Doc wondered why the deputies shifted uneasily, but didn’t interrupt. Kiddum started for the door and everyone got out of his way. The other man turned to follow him and made it two steps before his hand touched the pistol on his hip. Doc, seeing the man reach for his gun, lunged and knocked Jasmine out of her seat.

Kiddum spun when he heard the indrawn breaths behind him. His long barrel revolver came clear of the holster in a blink, and the hammer fell twice in quick succession. The large gun had glowing green markings on it as each round went off. The man he’d challenged gurgled, his pistol falling from his nerveless hand, having barely cleared the holster.

The sound of gunfire above him and a cry of pain from nearby had Doc breathing fast. Jasmine stared up at him with large eyes, her tongue flickering from her mouth, and Doc dimly noted that it was forked.

“Stop!” one of the deputies growled.

Kiddum looked at the deputy with a smirk and holstered the revolver as quickly as he’d drawn it. “He reached first, Deputy.”

“Someone get the doc!” another voice yelled. “Raymond’s been shot!”

Kiddum looked to the person who yelled and shrugged. “Sorry about that. Accidents happen when you’re packing what I do.”

“Kiddum,” Lia said with anger, “we do not condone shooting inside these walls.” She glanced at Dillon. “Go get Whittaker.”

Dillon took off running out the door.

The person who’d yelled for the doctor shook his head. “No point… he’s gone now.”

One of the deputies went over to Kiddum. “You coming quietly?”

Kiddum raised a single brow. “For what?”

“Involuntary manslaughter.”

Kiddum laughed. “No. Get Grange, you damned mutt. I’m not being arrested.”

The deputy growled softly, but left the building quickly.

The sound of Lia’s fan snapping open brought eyes to her. “Mr. Kiddum, you will curtail your insults in my establishment. I do not fault you for defending yourself against him, but you should know better than to use a cannon such as that in a crowded room.”

“I only use my guns, and neither is friendly to a room. I tried to take it outside, as a man should, but he wanted to shoot me in the back. If he’d just gone outside, that poor sucker would still be alive.”

“Kiddum?” Grange growled from the doorway, the one deputy behind him.

“Sheriff. Self-defense, but sadly, someone caught the round. Your mu… deputy,” Kiddum broke off the insult with a look at Lia, “wants to cuff me for involuntary manslaughter.”

Grange looked to Lia. “Self-defense?”

“The man drew when Kiddum’s back was turned.”

“Clear cut, then,” Grange shrugged. “I’ll send for the undertaker.” He looked over his shoulder. “Go on.”

Lia watched Grange with narrowed eyes as the deputy took off running again. “What of Raymond Hutchin?”

“Sad that it happened, but I’m sure that Kiddum will handle it.”

Doc felt a spike of anger that Kiddum was being given the all-clear so easily when Grange grilled him every time. Keeping it off his face, he stayed where he was.

“Doc, can you please get off?” Jasmine asked softly.

Doc blinked, realizing he was still on top of her. “Sorry.”

Grange glanced at Doc and Jasmine, then past them. “Kiddum, it was your bullet that killed the bystander, even if that bystander should’ve been someone else. Settle with his family or I’ll have to haul you in later.”

Kiddum nodded. “Sure thing, Sheriff. Am I good with finishing the tournament?”

“Self-defense,” Grange shrugged. “Whether you can finish or not is her call.” He motioned with his chin to Lia. “Good luck.”

Kiddum turned back to Lia. “Well?”

“No more gunplay,” Lia said grimly, then looked over the entire room. “That goes for all of you.”

Doc felt a chill travel down his spine when she looked over him, as if she would back up her words. By the time the chill passed, a man was in the doorway. Tall, gaunt, and dressed in black, he paused on the threshold with the deputy standing behind him.

“Madam Lia, I have come for the corpses,” the undertaker said in a flat, dead voice.

“Two. Make sure that Raymond Hutchin is buried well. Send me the bill, and let his family know,” Lia said. “And that title died last night. Feel free to bury it, too.”

The undertaker croaked what could’ve been a laugh as he entered the building. “A day for deaths, it appears.”

“Due to the circumstances, we’ll be taking a two-hour break,” Lia told the room. “Get some food, relax, and be prepared to play once we resume.”

Doc got to his feet, offering Jasmine a hand after he did. “You okay?”

“No... If you hadn’t knocked me down…”

“Luck was with us,” Doc said softly as he helped her up. “Lia, Jasmine could use some of your help,” he called over to the bar.

Lia, seeing Jasmine’s stricken expression, nodded. “Take her to the private dining room, please?”

“Sure. Come on, let’s go take a seat.”

“Lotus, secure the table and remove Raymond’s chips, please,” Lia said.

“Yes, Lia,” Lotus said, going to do as she was told.

Chapter Five

Doc escorted Jasmine to the private dining room and discovered that Fiala was already there. “Fiala, are you okay?”

She exhaled deeply. “I thought you or Jasmine had been shot. I came back here once Lia told you to.” Moving around the table, she grabbed both of them and pulled them into a hug.

“Doc saved me. I’m fine,” Jasmine said, her voice shaking.

“Going into shock, actually,” Doc said gently.

“Doc, here,” Posy said, bolting into the room with a bottle in her hand.

Doc slipped out of the hug to see Posy offering him the Moondew. “Thank you, Posy.” Pulling the cork out, he took a sip, then handed it to Jasmine. “Take a single sip. It’s powerful.”

Jasmine’s hands shook, and Doc made sure she held onto it. Once she took a drink, Doc took the bottle from her unresisting hand. He watched her color return and her breathing even out. Nodding, he passed it to Fiala, who was also a little shaken. Fiala took a sip before handing it back to him.

“What is that?” Fiala asked.

“Lia’s private stock,” Doc replied as he looked at Jasmine. “Do you feel okay, or do you need another?”

Jasmine shook her head. “The worst of it is fading. What’s that made of?”

“That’s a secret of my tribe,” Lia answered as she walked into the room. “Posy, four for dinner.”

“Yes, Lia,” Posy said, rushing off.

Lia gave the child a smile before closing the doors. “Sit, please.”

Fiala took the seat to Doc’s right, and Jasmine sat on her right. Lia ended up across from them.

“Jasmine, are you feeling better?”

“Yes, Lia. Poor Raymond…”

“He’s been a valued customer for years,” Lia sighed. “Damn Kiddum and his idiotic habit of using those monstrous guns.” Lia took a deep breath before continuing, “Doc, you have my deepest thanks for saving Jasmine.”

“Can’t have friends die,” Doc replied. “Jasmine and I might not have talked a lot, but she likes my music.”

Jasmine let out a sad laugh. “I do, and I almost lost the chance to dance to it again.”

“But he made sure you could,” Fiala told her gently.

“Lia,” Doc started, wanting to change the topic, “when you told everyone that there’d be no more shootings, no one gainsaid you. It felt as if the hand of death was hovering over me.”

Lia sighed. “I let my old self shine through. I was upset and didn’t think.”

“Is that the reason Grange respects you?”

“Yes. He only respects strength.”

“Ah, a long story?”

“Yes, but I’ll tell you the condensed version: I’m one of the very last of my tribe. I used to be called Death Flower, which translates to ‘flower of death’ in human.” Doc understood her when she spoke in Elvish, but didn’t want to interrupt her. “Once the valley started to be settled by humanity, I put my guns down and had this place built.”

“And you’ve held it this entire time?”

“Almost lost it, if not for… a friend,” Lia said the last two words with warmth.

“I’ll be one as long as you let me be,” Doc replied.

“We all care for you, Lia,” Fiala added, and Jasmine nodded.

“I know you do,” Lia smiled at them. “I hope I did okay taking care of you, my precious flowers. I always wanted to give you a better life than what we had, but it was the only real choice before. Doc has given us a much better option.”

“We thrived with you to shelter us,” Fiala said. “Now, we’ll return the favor by making sure the Lily thrives.”

“We’ve talked, us girls,” Jasmine said softly. “We want to help more, Lia, but we don’t know how.”

“I’ve got an idea about that,” Doc said. “It’ll have to wait for the Lily to grow, since it’ll require more room, which brings me to the renovations we need to discuss, Lia. Otto suggested the Beavertons.”

“They would be the best. Expensive, but they do quality woodwork. Did you want to completely remodel the old saloon next door?”

“I haven’t walked through it,” Doc said. “It’s a story shorter, but that can probably be fixed without too much trouble. I have an idea of what the final floor plan should look like, though. I can sketch it out after dinner.”

A knock on the door announced Posy and Daf with a small cart. The two of them quickly served the room, which included a bottle of wine, before leaving them to eat. An unspoken agreement to shelve the conversation came when bellies growled at the aroma of the food.

~*~*~

Doc sighed contentedly when he finished off his plate of mashed potatoes, gravy, cornbread muffins, and T-bone steak. “Daf sure knows how to cook.”

“I was very fortunate to be able to hire her,” Lia said before taking her last bite. “I know she feels like she owes me for hiring her and giving her and Posy a place to stay, but I know I have the best cook in town.”

“I can’t argue with that last part,” Doc said.

“She’s mellowed in the last few weeks, too,” Jasmine said. “She used to be a lot grumpier.”

“Doc’s healing helped a lot, I think,” Fiala said.

“Constant pain makes people short-tempered,” Doc said. “Add in her worry for Posy being left without her, and it’s not surprising.”

“Posy has been pushing for more lessons, too,” Lia said. “Something about making her mother more proud of her.”

Doc’s lips twitched into a smile. “She’s a good kid.”

“Now that we’re both done, why don’t we take a quick walk over to the other building and you can explain to me what you’re envisioning for it?” Lia suggested.

“Sounds good. Fiala, would you like to come with?”

Fiala looked at Lia, who smiled at her. “Yes.”

“I’ll go reclaim the table,” Jasmine said.

“No, Jasmine. Have Lotus take the table over for you. You can switch to serving drinks for the rest of tonight.”

“If that’s what you want. I feel fine now, though.”

Lia met Jasmine’s eyes for a moment before she smiled. “Very well. You’re made of stern mettle. Take your table back over after you finish your meal.”

Jasmine nodded, then went back to working on her food.

Doc got to his feet. “Is there another way out besides the front door?”

“The kitchen,” Lia said. “Why?”

“No reason to announce that we aren’t here,” Doc chuckled.

“That’s true.”

Daf gave them a questioning glance when they entered the kitchen, but Lia put a finger to her lips as they moved to the door at the back of the room. Daf nodded and went back to cooking.

Slipping into the alley, Doc glanced both ways, not seeing anyone around. It was a short walk over to the abandoned saloon that the Lily stood beside. The front had been boarded up, but Doc had the key to the back door. Getting it open, he followed the women inside.

Closing the door behind him, Doc snorted. “I forgot to bring a lantern, Fiala. I’m sorry.”

“Why? I can see in here just fine. The windows give me enough light. You might need one, though.”

“One of the reasons I asked you to come is so that I can tell you something I should’ve told you a bit ago,” Doc said. “I told Lia earlier today. I’m not human— I’m half-elf and half-dwarf.”

Fiala blinked at him, surprised and unsure of what to say while Doc gave her the explanation he’d given Lia earlier. “Oh, I see... Does that change anything between us?”

“Only if you feel uncomfortable.”

Fiala giggled. “No, Doc. If anything, I’m happy you told me instead of just keeping it a secret. Thank you. I’ll hold your secrets safe, taking them with me to the grave.”

“Hopefully, that’s never necessary,” Doc said, pulling her close and giving her a kiss.

Lia gave them a moment, then cleared her throat. “The building?”

“Oh, right. Sorry, Lia,” Doc coughed. “The storeroom here can be expanded to take in the office through that door. No need for an office in both buildings. The first thing I want to do is bring the two buildings together. That means the alley needs to get built over, and then we can make a large hall between them.”

Doc took his time to mark out and show Lia what he was talking about, describing how the two buildings would function as a single one.

“So you want the second floor here to overlook the first floor?” Lia asked for clarification.

“Yes. That would give the people who only want to watch the last few tables the chance to do so without hindering the games themselves. It’d require a few people to keep a close eye on the observers so no one can signal a player, but today’s final table will prove my point in that regard.”

“That means we can use the Lily as she is now for the girls to dance and entertain on the stage,” Lia nodded, “and you can use the tables there to open up cash games again, even when the tournament continues on. It’ll increase the number of players we can have in every tournament, too. The low-end tables will be flooded every week.” Lia paused for a moment, thinking. “Hmm... what about the third floor here you mentioned?”

“I want to put staff housing in here,” Doc said. “It’ll clearly mark a difference for your girls. Since the third floor has to be built from scratch, it’ll mean they can have bigger rooms.”

“What about the current rooms?”

“Rooms for people who want to stay, like I was,” Doc said. “When news of the tournament spreads, some people are going to make the trip and want to stay a few nights. I’d like to put in a back stairway where the private dining room is so guests can use the bathrooms without having to go into the front.”

“We didn’t get much use from the private room before you,” Lia said slowly. “It makes sense. Might as well put a door in there so people can get to the outhouses easily, too. This will all cost quite a bit of money if we get the Beavertons to do the work.”

“How long would it take them?” Doc asked.

“I’m not sure, just as I’m not sure about the final cost. Draw up what you were talking about and we can go speak with them tomorrow.”

“Sounds good,” Doc nodded. “I’ll be recusing myself from every tournament except the yearly one after this one.”

“To cut down on the rumors that might come up,” Lia nodded. “That’s for the best. I do have a question for you: is it possible to buy a share in Luck’s Holdings?”

Doc chuckled. “I’ll need to talk with Ayla about that. I need her along for tomorrow, anyway.”

“She’s a smart woman,” Lia nodded. “Do you trust her?”

“Enough to handle the money. That’s enough for now.”

“I see. Very well. We should get back. No need for you to default out of this tournament.”

“True.”

Chapter Six

Doc stretched slowly, but when he didn’t feel anyone in bed with him, he opened his eyes. Rubbing the gunk out of his eyes, he sat up with a massive yawn. The shuttered window told him that it was day by the light coming in around the wood.

Getting to his feet, he found the basin was still warm to the touch, but not steaming anymore. Guess she hasn’t been out long, Doc thought while he gave himself a quick rinse. He was pulling on his second boot when the door opened and Fiala came into the room.

“Morning, Doc,” Fiala smiled. “I brought breakfast up.”

Doc looked at the tray in her hands. “Something up?”

“I wanted to have you to myself this morning,” Fiala said softly, her cheeks heating slightly.

Doc smiled at her. “I’m not against it. What brought it on today?”

Fiala started to set breakfast out on the table. “You could’ve been killed yesterday saving Jasmine. That thought didn’t really sink in until last night. I know we’ll have a lot of hardships, and death does like to follow you… that scares me. I’ve accepted that I’ll share you with some, but I still want time for just us, too.”

Doc waited for her to set down the last part of breakfast, then pulled her to him. Arms going around her waist, he kissed her ear. “Nothing wrong with that, Fiala. The same will be true for others, I’m sure. It’s probably not going to be an easy road, but if we trust each other and talk out any problems we have, I think we’ll be fine.”

Resting her head against his chest, she could hear his heart beating. “It’s only been a month. How did it happen so fast?”

“I don’t know. I think your acceptance of what might come made it easy. Knowing you’d be beside me— come hell or high water— made it easy to love you.”

“I can’t not love you, Doc. You care for others, you don’t care about our heritage, and you treat us right. Your openness is what drew me in to start, and while a small part of me wants to keep you all to myself, I know that your love shouldn’t be hoarded and locked away. I do hope you won’t keep anyone I disapprove of, though.”

“It’d be difficult to have two people I care about fighting,” Doc said. “That’s a worry for me.”

“I’ll do my best to get along with whomever you think needs to be beside you,” Fiala said.

“You’re amazing, my beautiful flower,” Doc murmured, tilting her chin up and kissing her softly.

Fiala purred as she returned the kiss. When it finally stopped, she was breathing a little fast. “If we don’t eat soon, the food will be cold.”

“Daf would never forgive us...” Doc murmured before kissing her again.

Fiala purred louder and pressed into him, pushing Doc over onto the bed and ending up with her straddling him. When the kiss broke, her eyes were glittering in the dim light. “I want more...” With a deep sigh, she pushed off the bed and went to the table. “But Lia is waiting for you.”

Doc took a few deep breaths and adjusted himself into a less awkward position. “Oh, right. Supposed to talk to the Beavertons.”

“Yes, but later tonight, we could continue this,” Fiala said. “Just you and me?”

“Sold,” Doc grinned. “I’ll be thinking of it all day.”

Fiala’s smile grew and she poured them both some coffee. “Try not to let it cause too many problems.”

“No promises,” Doc chuckled.

~*~*~

When he made it to the main room, he grinned at four tables filled with people already. Dillon stood near the bar, talking with Cassia and watching the games.

“Morning. How’s it going?” Doc asked.

“Busy,” Cassia smiled. “When the tournament finally ended, the tables opened back up, and we’ve had at least two games going since then. Surprised when you went out in fourth.”

“Kiddum got lucky,” Doc said. “Probably best he did, anyway. He appears a mite too eager to shoot people.”

“He’s too fast for anyone to take on,” Dillon said. “That and the way he can fire so fast. I didn’t see him cock the hammer either time.”

“He didn’t fan it,” Doc said. “He might be thumbing it, or running a slip.”

“What?” Dillon asked.

“Fanning is a trick. Hold the trigger down and brush the hammer back with the palm of your hand.” Doc mimicked what he was talking about. “It’s obvious, and difficult to be accurate when fanning. Thumbing is similar— you hold the trigger, but using the thumb of your firing hand, you snap the hammer instead of using your offhand. You need a strong thumb and a big hand to do it easily. Slipping is when you modify the gun so the trigger isn’t needed, and normally, you modify the hammer so it’s lower and easier to get to with the thumb.”

“Which would make him faster to fire,” Dillon said slowly. “Added with how fast he can draw, it’s no wonder that he always manages to get the best out of a duel.”

“And if he’s a little inaccurate, it doesn’t matter as much when he’s firing two or three shots to the other person’s one,” Doc said. “All conjecture, though, and I’m certainly not going to bring it up. By the way, don’t slip your gun. It’s a good way to shoot your own foot.”

Dillon grunted, clearly having been thinking about it. “Yeah, I don’t want that.”

“Doc, are you ready?” Lia asked, coming out of the back. Her dress was a little less conservative than it’d been in the past, but still modest, except for the side slits. They went to her knee, letting her long and lean legs flash into view when she walked.

“I am. Sorry for the delay, Lia.”

“You were in it until late,” Lia replied. “Even I was asleep before the tournament ended. Jasmine had to let me know the outcome.”

“Who won?” Doc asked as they headed for the door.

“Smythe took first, and Kiddum took second. You did the right thing to drop out when you did.”

“Didn’t drop out. He beat me fairly. Luck might be my goddess, but that doesn’t mean I win all the time,” Doc said, a smile touching his lips when he spotted Ayla coming toward them. “Morning, Ayla.”

“Good morning, Doc. I have all the contracts notarized and sealed. I have estimated amounts for the renovations and expansion, as well as what Rangvald thought the next shipment of ore might bring in.”

“I appreciate it. I’d be in a rough spot if not for your help.”

Ayla blushed lightly. “I’m doing what you’re paying me for.”

“Might be true, but I’ve known a lot of people who do the bare minimum for their jobs, too.”

Ayla smiled, brushing some hair behind her ear. “Well, it’s easy to be excited about the work when you know that the person you’re working for is trying to help others. I put together some considerations for the extra income, depending on how much comes in and how much the Beavertons want for the work.”

“Damn. Might need to give you a raise already,” Doc chuckled.

“No, that would disrupt all my calculations,” Ayla said quickly.

“I wouldn’t want to do that,” Doc replied. His eyes drifted to the milliner’s shop as they passed it.

“Were you thinking of helping him, Doc?” Lia asked as they continued to walk down the street.

“I wanted to yesterday, but the clerk’s husband took it out of me,” Doc replied. “I’m going to see Sigmund after the Beavertons. Oh, and I’ll be unreachable tomorrow, just so you both know. I’ll be with the dwarves all day. I need to let Fiala know later.”

“Going to help them even more?” Lia asked.

“In a way. I need to make sure I can keep helping them. Otto mentioned that I’m already pressing the debt more than the clan is comfortable with.”

“They do take their debts seriously,” Lia nodded. “It’s one of the things I’ve always admired about them.”

“Good to know you get along with them,” Doc said.

“Respect, yes. Get along... that might be stretching it.”

“I’ll be tied up with them for years, at the very least,” Doc said. “Getting along is going to be necessary. Ayla, I need you to crunch the numbers on breaking Luck’s Holdings into shares so I can bring in partners.”

Ayla’s steps faltered for a moment. “Partners? Who are you going to join with? Not Suez, I hope?”

“Hell no,” Doc said. “Him and Goodman need to go. Lia asked about picking up a share of the business, and it got me thinking that in time, having them as leverage for deals would be a good idea. Best to lay the groundwork now.”

Ayla glanced at Lia. “I guess leaving a partner behind in each location you have businesses in makes sense.”

Lia’s lips twitched. “It does. If I was going to leave, I would have to make sure that whoever looks after my Lily was capable.”

“That’s true, but I doubt anyone can imagine the Lily without you,” Ayla said. “You’re as much a fixture in this town as the Lily.”

“Okay, that’s about enough,” Doc said. “I don’t care for veiled insults. I do not want people I deal with sniping at each other, especially friends.”

Lia nodded once. “I understand, Doc.”

“Sorry, Lia,” Ayla sighed, “I shouldn’t have said that last part.”

“I accept your apology. Besides, you aren’t wrong. Leaving the Lily and Deep Gulch behind would be life-changing. I could never have even considered the option a year ago. If Doc is right, though, and Goodman and Suez can be forced out like Brand was, well… who knows?”

“Who knows?” Ayla repeated slowly.

~*~*~

Doc gave the home a good look as they approached it. The stately manor had exquisite woodwork adorning it. It was two stories tall and stretched a few hundred feet across.

“Nice place,” Doc said.

“They did the work themselves,” Lia said, “though they needed a loan to afford the property. That’s the only reason they don’t own it outright.”

“Maybe we can cut a deal to include the deed, then,” Doc said.

“I have the rough outline of one with that as the main point,” Ayla said.

“Sounds good. Lia, you know them. Why don’t you take the lead for introductions?”

“Gladly. I wouldn’t have agreed to hire them if I hadn’t come to know you,” Lia said as she walked up to the door.

Doc was puzzled by her statement until the door opened. The woman who answered it had sleek fur where hair should be and a strong jaw with prominent teeth.

“Lia? Is something wrong?”

“Not wrong, Ursula. I came to talk about business.”

The woman smiled and her front teeth became visible— they were bright orange in color. “Oh, it’s been a while since we had a good job.” She looked past Lia to Doc and Ayla, and her smile dimmed. “Goodman’s secretary and someone else? Lia?”

“Ayla is no longer beholden to Goodman,” Lia said. “Doc Holyday is the reason I came about business.”

Doc took off his bowler. “Ma’am, if it’s an inconvenience, we can come back later.”

After a moment, Ursula sighed and opened the door wide. “Come on in. I’ll get my husband and we’ll listen to what you have to say.”

They followed her to a parlor, where she had them sit, then left. She was gone for only a few moments before she returned with her husband. “Urik, you know Lia and Ayla. The gentleman with them is Doc Holyday.”

“Good day, sir,” Doc said, standing and offering his hand.

Urik took it slowly with a suspicious look at Doc. “I’m Urik Beaverton. You’ve met my wife, Ursula. What can we do for you, Mr. Holyday?”

“I was hoping to hire you to renovate a building and combine it with its neighbor.”

Urik frowned as he moved to take a seat. “An interesting idea. How much work are we talking?”

Doc pulled out the sketches he’d made the night before and laid them on the coffee table. “The abandoned saloon next to the Lily, and the Lily,” he said, motioning to each set of drawings. “This is what I was hoping for to connect them.”

Urik started to reach for the drawings, then stopped. “Lia, did you get the Lily back?”

“Doc was instrumental in me regaining ownership. I entered into a partnership with him, as the Lily is no longer a brothel, but a gambling hall. We need to expand to make it a contender against the Gold Strike.”

“Hmm...” Urik picked up the drawings and began to study them. Ursula looked over his shoulder, pointing out things to him. Minutes passed before he set the papers down. “It’s a bit simplistic, isn’t it?”

Doc chuckled. “Well, I’m not an artist, so I did the best I could.”

Urik blinked, then laughed. “No, I’m sorry. It’s just that the overall design is not as much as it could be.”

“Please, tell me more?” Doc asked.

Ursula came back with some paper and a charcoal pencil and began to draw.

“Joining the two buildings is easily done,” Urik said. “We can do that with minimal fuss. The stairs similar to the Lily will work, though you’ll lose two rooms— one on each floor— in the process.”

“Which I accept,” Lia said.

“Adding a story onto the saloon for rooms we can do, but why not something different? Keep the rooms at the Lily for the staff, since you’ll have more of them. Remove the stairs from the front room of the Lily, so only the staff has access via the back stairs we’ll add.”

“Okay?” Doc said questioningly, listening.

“Add the third floor to the saloon, and make those rooms for guests. Then, we take the old office and convert it into bathing rooms for the building. The stairs in that building would climb to the second floor, and then onto the third, with a separate, smaller stairway that would go from third to baths, and not be visible to the card room or the balcony watching area.”

Doc looked at Lia, who was thinking. “Lia?”

“I’m fine with that change, but was that all, Urik?”

“No. I’d want to add in adornment to the entirety of the saloon, and once it’s done, to go back and do the same for the Lily.”

“Will you make the adornments to match the theme?” Lia asked.

“We can,” Urik said. “You want to stay with flowers?”

“A few would be nice,” Lia said. “Doc?”

“Flowers are fine,” Doc said. “We want it to be tasteful.”

Urik nodded. “Okay.”

Ursula handed the pad to Doc. “Like this?”

Doc looked at the drawings, showing the new designs for the buildings, and nodded. “I like it. Lia?”

Lia took the offered drawings and gave them a good look. “Approved.”

“Then we just need to come to terms on cost,” Urik said.

“That’s where I come in,” Ayla said. “I work for Doc now. I have a couple of options on compensation.”

Urik’s lips drew back, showing off his orange incisors. “I remember the deal you made us for the property—”

“Wait,” Doc said, stopping him. “You won’t be getting screwed over this time. One of the deals she’s put together includes us getting the deed for your house bought out from the bank, just like I bought out the Lily’s debt and a few others.”

Urik glanced at Lia. “Doc isn’t like Goodman. Do you think I’d bring him if he was?”

“He might’ve taken the debt and used it against you,” Urik said.

“Goodman or Suez would have,” Lia agreed. “Doc asked to be a partner in the business. It’s not like he needs my business, either. He has a profitable mine of his own.”

“Huh... Very well. Let’s see this compensation,” Urik said, holding out his hand to Ayla.

Chapter Seven

Doc entered the shop, shutting the door behind him. “Sigmund, you in?”

“Hats!” Sigmund’s voice exclaimed from the backroom.

Doc chuckled as he moved to the counter. “I can wait.” Taking off his bowler, Doc touched the silver band, engraved with card images.

“Good hat?” Sigmund asked, jumping onto the shelf behind the counter to be at eye-level with Doc.

“Exceptional hat,” Doc replied. “I especially love the band. Did you make it?”

“Yes. It felt right,” Sigmund nodded.

“Do you have a few minutes, Sigmund?” Doc asked seriously. “I’d like to try to help you make more hats.”

Sigmund blinked, staring at Doc before he stepped off the shelf. A moment later, he was over by the door, locking it and turning the sign to closed. Going toward the back, he motioned Doc to follow him.

Doc picked his hat up and held it in hand as he followed the gnome. Passing into the back hall, Doc’s steps slowed as he looked at the shelves filled with hats that ran the length of the hall. Shaking his head, he hurried his pace to catch the small man, who walked deceptively fast with his unique gait.

Sigmund opened a door and motioned Doc inside. Doc entered the room, stepping quickly aside so Sigmund could follow him. “This is where hats are made?”

“Yes,” Sigmund said softly, but the depth of his love for hats was clear in his tone.

“Do you know why you’re dying, Sigmund?” Doc asked as he followed the gnome to the two chairs in the room.

“Hatter,” Sigmund replied sadly.

“The mercury you use seeps into the blood,” Doc said. “It slowly drives a hatter mad and kills them. It’s heavy metal poisoning.”

“Hatter death,” Sigmund whispered. “Family, all.”

Doc nodded. “I can help if you want.” When he summoned healing hands, he made sure cleansing was active, too. “I can lend you a hand, as it were.”

Sigmund stared at Doc’s glowing green hands for a moment before he tittered. “Joke... funny.” The amusement vanished in a blink. “Help. Cost?”

“Friendship?” Doc asked.

Sigmund nodded slowly, then reached out to take Doc’s hand. “Friend, yes. Good to hats. Nice to me.”

Doc focused on what he felt inside Sigmund. Mercury poisoning was what was killing the gnome. It had also damaged his kidneys and was causing hearing loss, but the majority of the damage was neurological.

Pouring his energy into Sigmund, Doc focused on the kidneys and his hearing first, as those would be easier to fix. When those were back to good condition, he poured the rest of what he could into cleansing Sigmund’s bloodstream.

The gnome watched the man across from him with wide eyes as he felt the power infusing him. “Healer, but not doctor...” Sigmund whispered.

Doc didn’t hear him, lost in directing his energy. He felt the moment his energy was used up and when his vitality started to drain. Stopping there, he let the glow fade and sat back. “That’s all I can do today, Sigmund. I’ll come back over the next few days to cleanse more of it, but you’ll be adding more every time you use mercury.”

Sigmund sat still for a long moment. “Thank you, Doc.”

“A good milliner is hard to find,” Doc said. “How long has it been?”

Sigmund sat there, lips pursed as he thought. “Seventy years?”

“Long time to make hats.”

“Hats are love,” Sigmund replied.

“A lot of love in seventy years,” Doc smiled.

“Yes. You understand.”

“I’m trying to.”

Sigmund got to his feet abruptly. His odd jig step was still there, and Doc wondered if that was natural for him and not the mercury, after all. “Thanks required. New hat for you. I make.”

“No need,” Doc said, getting to his feet. “Friends help where they can, don’t they?”

Sigmund hesitated. “Too long...” he shrugged.

“Friends help,” Doc said again. “If you think something needs to be done, just thank Lady Luck. She’s special to me.” He tapped the card images on his hatband. “It’s why I love this hat.”

Sigmund’s smile grew wide. “Yes, thanks. Bring Stet back?”

Doc gave up trying to stop Sigmund from what he wanted to do. “I’ll bring it by when I can.”

“Good. New band for hat will make.”

“Okay. It might be a day or two before I can come back to help more, but I’ll be back. Did you get the deed registered?”

“Papers done. Stamped, signed. Shop be mine.”

“Good. Happy to help you and stick it to Goodman.”

“Goodman no love hats,” Sigmund said as if the very thought was an atrocity of the highest magnitude.

“Fool,” Doc grinned.

“Yes. Fool, but that means more hats for others.”

“So even he has a good point to him.”

Sigmund paused, looking torn about having to admit Goodman might’ve done something positive.

“Don’t let it phase you, Sigmund. I’ll see you soon. Did you want me to open up when I leave?”

“Yes, please.”

“Okay. Have a good day. May the hats be true.”

“Bands of truth to bring them together,” Sigmund sighed happily.

~*~*~

The Lily was as busy as it could be when Doc got back. Six tables were full, and the chips were moving across the felt. Doc gave Fiala a wink when he went past her table, getting a smile in return. Cassia stood behind the bar, fixing drinks for people, while Dillon watched over the games. He was surprised to see Ayla standing at the bar.

“Ayla? Something up?”

“If we can talk for a moment, please, sir?”

“Cassia, is the private dining room open?”

“It should be,” Cassia called to him.

“Thanks, Cassia.” He motioned Ayla toward the door. “Let’s go.”

When they settled into seats in the room, Ayla cleared her throat, “Doc, I’m not exactly sure what you want me to do. You hired me to manage your money, but you keep giving all of it away.”

“To stop me from giving away more than I have, to start with. The two plans you put together for the Beavertons were sharper than anything I could’ve managed. The fact you had them both there to act as a net if we can’t get the deed paid off was genius.”

Ayla looked down. “I shouldn’t criticize you... I mean, I tried to sell myself to you just to get away from Goodman, and you didn’t even blink at the amount owed.”

Doc didn’t reply, as she was clearly struggling to find the right words.

“You don’t appear to care about the money at all, yet you hired me to help you with financial decisions and not for what I... tried to offer you. I’m trying to do my best, but I can’t see what you’re after.”

Doc shook his head. “Right now, my goal is simple, Ayla. I want to break the stranglehold Goodman and Suez have on this town. I want to promote the people who’ve been pushed down, and give them a chance to get back on their feet. All the money from the mine is because of Luck, and she wants me to bring life back to the world. Honestly, a part of me would love nothing more than to keep all the money to myself. It’d be easy to live life that way, but I walk the hard roads— always have— and that’s why she chose me.”

“Luck... I’ve heard you say that multiple times. You mean a deity behind the idea of luck, don’t you?”

“Lady Luck is my patron goddess and the reason I’m here. You’ve heard stories before, haven’t you?”

Ayla swallowed hard, her eyes affixed to the table. “My mother used to tell those stories. Elder tales of those who worked for the gods. I never really believed, though.”

“It can be hard to accept,” Doc agreed. “If I wasn’t her Voice, I might not believe it, either. It goes against a lot of what I used to believe. Those close to me believe now.”

“Why?” Ayla asked softly. “I’m a person of hard numbers, not belief.”

Doc nodded. “Who all can heal?”

Ayla’s brow furrowed. “Doctors, shamans, and spirit healers, though the last two have been nearly eradicated. The church takes pride in disproving them.”

“Well, they’re going to be disappointed when they fail with me,” Doc said.

Ayla looked up. “Can you?”

“Yes. I’ve healed a few people here in town. Mostly dwarves, but also Henrick, Sigmund, and the clerk’s husband.”

Ayla bit her lip, then exhaled slowly. “How big of a wound does it have to be to heal?”

Doc shook his head. “I won’t do that to you. If you need proof, I’d rather it was me injured.”

Breathing slowly, Ayla shook her head. “No... I’m the one who needs proof.”

Doc put his knife on the table. “A small cut works.” He showed her the scar on his hand. “It leaves a scar, so keep that in mind.”

Taking the knife, Ayla’s breathing sped up some as she rolled up one of her sleeves. “Okay...”

Doc triggered healing hands and waited.

Seeing his hands glowing green, Ayla’s mouth gaped slightly. With a deep breath, she nicked her forearm enough to leave a red crease. Hissing, she dropped the knife on the table and grabbed her wounded arm.

Doc let a second pass, then reached for her. “Lady, please help my friend, who needs to believe.”

Ayla’s breath caught when his hand touched her arm and the warmth of his healing rushed into her. Feeling the pain fade, she stared at her arm in shock— she watched as the cut closed.

Doc grimaced as his head began to ache slightly. With the injury treated, he stopped healing her. “Wipe it off and see for yourself.”

Ayla pulled a handkerchief from her pocket and wiped the blood off her arm. The only trace of the wound was a thin, white line of scar tissue. Poking at it gently, she just sat there, shocked at what had transpired.

“That’s one of the things Luck has gifted to me,” Doc said. “It taxes me if I do too much in a single day, and I used up a majority of my energy today helping Sigmund.”

Ayla’s gaze went from her arm to his eyes. “The milliner?”

“He’s dealing with mercury poisoning. It eats at the body and damages the mind. He’s only partially cured. Because he’s been working with mercury for seventy years, it’ll take me days to purify him, and I’ll have to repeat it periodically since he’s going to continue to make hats.”

“What of Henrick?”

“I cured her lungs, but still need to help with her barrenness, eyesight, and drug addictions.”

“And the dwarves?”

“A number of minor issues, but the big one was Otto’s daughter. She was going to die from an infection.”

“Oh…”

“Bit of a shock, is it?”

Ayla nodded. “Yes.” Pausing for a second, she swallowed the lump in her throat. “Why did you help me? It wasn’t because you wanted me. You don’t even look at me like that.”

“Because you needed the help and I needed someone who could make sure I didn’t break myself in the process. I’m glad you agreed, Ayla. I know you’ll do the best you can.”

Ayla nodded. “Okay, so we’re helping you free the town first, but then what?”

“I’ll move on and do it again and again until more people believe in Luck.”

“You’ll need a house of worship,” Ayla said seriously. “If you hadn’t gone with enlarging the Lily—”

“The Lily has already been registered as Luck’s house of worship and as a gambling hall,” Doc cut her off. “I’m sure they’ll try to hurt us by going after the Lily. I’ve been trying to think of how else to get around the restrictions of the law, and legally.”

Ayla got to her feet. “I’ll look into it, sir.”

“It’s—” Doc began.

“I’ll let you know once I have an answer,” Ayla said, talking right over him, her eyes burning with passion. “Excuse me.” With that, she left the room in a hurry.

“Not your problem,” Doc finished with a head shake. “Well, at least she’s on board.”

Chapter Eight

Stretching, Doc looped his arm over Fiala’s waist. Doc kissed her ear and smiled when she stirred, her eyes fluttering open. “Morning, my beautiful kitty.”

Fiala’s eyes shot wide open and she stiffened in his arms. “Doc! No!”

“Um, what?”

“Not that term. It’d be like calling Posy a ‘bunny,’ or Lia a ‘pointy-ear.’ It’s derogatory!” She turned over to face him, her eyes searching his face. “Why did you say that?”

“I didn’t know,” Doc said softly. “I still don’t know some things about the world, Fiala. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

The honesty in his face helped ease Fiala’s worry. “Okay... I’m sorry for raising my voice. If you hadn’t told me about you not being from this world, I might’ve stormed out and questioned your love for me.”

“Because it would feel like I was just using you and not loving you,” Doc sighed. “I get it. I’m sorry. I had no idea.”

Fiala gave him a tentative smile. “I forgive you, Doc. Why did you even think that it would be okay, though?”

Doc coughed. “Well, on my old world, there were a lot of books that had people of mixed animal and human types. One of my favorites had a woman like you, and the protagonist called her his ‘silly kitty.’ I think I projected a little.”

Fiala shook her head. “And she allowed it?”

“Only from him and their wives,” Doc admitted.

“I’m sorry, I can’t. I can’t hear that and not hate it,” Fiala said.

“Okay,” Doc said, leaning in to kiss her nose. “I won’t say it again.”

Fiala leaned her head against his chest and sighed. “Thank you.”

Doc held her and stroked her hair for a few minutes, content to hold her. He knew that they’d just had their first disagreement, and it was okay. He’d had such small problems cause huge rifts and break old relationships, so he’d been worried.

“Water,” Posy called from the hallway with a knock on the door.

Doc sighed and gave Fiala a squeeze. “I need to get going.”

“Yes, for your meeting with the dwarves. You won’t be back until tomorrow morning?”

“An entire day is what I was told.”

“Are you sure you’ll be okay?”

“Pretty sure. It’s just a sweat lodge, and people on my world— a world without magic— could pull it off. With the magic and my mixed blood, I’m confident.”

“Okay. I’ll get the water,” Fiala said as she let go of him.

Doc held her close for a few seconds longer before letting her get up. “Sorry, just wanted a little more of you next to me.”

Fiala smiled softly as she looked over her shoulder at him. “I didn’t mind. I was a little nervous that you’d want to press the issue of calling me… that.”

“I don’t want you to feel unloved,” Doc said.

“I know, and that makes me smile all day.”

~*~*~

Waving to Jasmine, who was behind the bar, Doc gave her a grin when she wished him a good day. Three tables were in play, but one of them was only half full. Doc figured it was a higher limit table.

Doc thought about visiting Sigmund or Henrick, but decided against it. He wasn’t exactly sure what he was going to have to endure, and felt that he needed his energy. Halfway to Otto’s shop, Doc came to an abrupt stop as Grange stepped out in front of him.

“Sheriff,” Doc said, moving to go around him.

“Holyday. You’ve been a busy man.”

“Just doing what I can,” Doc said, passing the big man.

Grange slapped a hand onto Doc’s shoulder, stopping him. “A lot of trouble has followed you. It might be time for you to move along.”

Doc looked at the hand on his shoulder, then Grange. “Sheriff, I’m not leaving any time soon. I’m still setting up my mine and other business ventures. I’m sorry that people keep causing trouble around me, but I haven’t started any of that. I even put myself in harm’s way once to assist you and the marshal.”

Grange’s face shifted through a couple of emotions before he removed his hand. “I’ll be keeping an eye on you, Holyday. One day, you’ll mess up, and I’ll be there to make sure you’re brought in.”

“While men who kill innocent people, if on accident, are not even taken in for the night,” Doc snorted. “Have a good day, Sheriff.”

Doc could feel Grange’s eyes on his back as he walked down the street. Are you bought and paid for, Grange, or are you just a pawn of the Darkness? With that thought running through his head, Doc was still thinking about it when he reached Otto’s.

The sign said closed, and Doc got a long look from a passerby when he knocked. Otto opened the door a moment later, giving Doc a nod as he stepped aside.

“Morning, Otto,” Doc greeted the dwarf.

“Come on in. The wife is still getting ready to leave.”

Doc stepped into the shop. “What about your daughter?”

Otto shook his head. “She isn’t home.”

“Is she doing okay?” Doc asked. “I know I upset her a lot last time.”

“She can be a handful, but my wife was able to calm her down. She’s been quiet the last few days.”

“That’s good,” Doc exhaled. “I didn’t mean to anger her that much.”

“I know. I’m still grateful to you for what you did,” Otto said.

“He’s here already? Good,” Greta said, coming into the room. “We’re ready to go.”

“You look lovely today,” Doc greeted her.

Greta gave him a smile. “This is as dressed up as I care to get normally,” she said, brushing at her green dress, “but thank you for the compliment.”

“He’s right, dear,” Otto said, “though you look lovely every day.”

Greta smiled at her husband. “Thank you, dear.”

~*~*~

The walk across town didn’t take long, but Doc noticed the looks they were getting as they walked. When they approached one of the few stone buildings in town, Doc realized that he’d only seen dwarves in the last street.

“Is this part of town exclusively dwarven?”

“No. There are a few bestials who live down here,” Otto said. “We do tend to group together, though.”

“For safety?” Doc asked.

“Mostly, but it’s also comforting to know that the clan is nearby to help.”

“But your shop is on the main street,” Doc said.

“Had to,” Otto replied. “Needed to be highly visible. Luckily, I’m still the only barber in town. I’ve been worried that Goodman or Suez would bring in a hum— er, person— to compete against me.”

“And you think bigotry would cost you business,” Doc nodded. “It’s unfortunate, but you’re not wrong. Whittaker and his ilk would do just that... doesn’t matter if you’re better with the razorblade, either.”

“Exactly,” Otto nodded. “You understand what I worry about.”

“Business is close enough as it is some months,” Greta said.

“The bank holds the deed for this place, if I recall,” Doc said as they closed on the building.

“It does. A debt we incurred to buy more property for the clan,” Otto said. “A topic of heated debate, since the elders did it.”

“Dear...” Greta said in a warning tone.

Otto coughed. “Right. Sorry.”

“Don’t discuss clan politics with someone from outside the clan?” Doc asked.

“Indeed,” Greta said, “though that won’t be an issue soon.”

Entering the building, Doc took in the intricate carvings in the stone. He was taken down a hall to a set of double doors. A dwarf stood in front of them, shotgun in hand and clearly on guard.

“We’ve brought the one who seeks to complete the Rite of Heriz,” Otto announced.

The guard gave Doc a long look before he knocked twice on the door. After a few seconds, he pushed it open and stepped aside.

Doc gave the guard a nod when he went by. Following Otto, Doc took stock of who was waiting for them. Three dwarves sat in stone-carved seats. Two of them had long, gray beards that were intricately braided and decorated with precious gems and metals. The third had long braids that trailed down in front of her ears, just as richly decorated as the men’s beards.

“Elders, I bring before you Doc Holyday,” Otto said, his tone one of deference. “He seeks to pass the Rite of Heriz.”

All three elders looked at Doc, who had taken his hat off when they’d entered the building. Doc bowed his head to the trio. “Elders, it’s an honor.”

“Why do you seek the Rite of Heriz?” the woman asked, her voice still strong, belying the wrinkles and grey hair.

“To strengthen my bond with the clan,” Doc said, not sure what else to say. “I was told that all I’ve done for the clan is near the breaking point. I don’t wish to harm you, but to enrich all of us.”

“You’ve healed nearly a dozen of us, hired Rangvald on as a mine foreman, given dozens of the clan jobs as miners, befriended respected clan members, and handed the blood debt of a young maiden over to her family to spare her,” one of the men said. “The clan is deeply indebted.”

“We were surprised that you wanted to undertake the rite,” the last elder said. “This would make you a member of the clan. Is that what you seek?”

Doc took a moment before he answered, “Elders, I would be honored to be part of the clan.”

“Do you understand the risks?” the female elder asked.

“All I know is that I have to survive a steam room for a full day,” Doc admitted. “I’ve been warned that few manage it.”

“Deadly to most,” she nodded. “Only a handful of humans have survived the ordeal. Do you still wish this?”

“I do, honored elder.”

“Very well,” she said. “The room is prepared. Once you enter, you will be locked inside until the allotted time has passed. We wish you luck, Mr. Holyday, and we hope to see you after the rite.”

“I would like to speak with you again, as well,” Doc said. “Is there a place where I can leave some items while I’m inside?”

“There is a waiting area with baskets,” the elder replied. “Otto will take you. May Luck watch over you.”

“Thank you, Elder. May Luck smile on you,” Doc replied.

~*~*~

The trip from the elders’ room to the steam room was a bit convoluted, and took them down two flights of stairs. The few dwarves they passed stepped aside and watched Doc worriedly.

They reached a room where small cubbies had been built into the stone, and each cubby held a basket. Otto stopped by the doorway with Greta beside him. “This is the room,” Otto said with reverence. “You may place anything you want in the baskets and they’ll be safe, waiting for your return or for us to hand them over to your estate.”

Doc looked at Greta. “Anything else I should know before I go inside?”

“Nothing. We’ll be praying for you,” Greta said solemnly before stepping out of the room.

“Good luck, Doc,” Otto said. “I have to wait for you to enter the room before I can leave.”

Doc nodded and picked a basket, stripping down to his undergarments and placing everything into the one basket. Once he was ready, he turned to the metal door that was clearly the one he had to enter. With a deep breath, he opened it and wet heat rolled over him. Taking one more deep breath, he entered and shut the door.

A deep thrum sounded when the door shut, and Doc looked back to find a red glowing rune on the metal. A round circle with twenty-four distinct marks was clearly visible, and Doc nodded.

“A full day, it is,” Doc said. “I can do this.”

“That is my second deepest wish,” said a soft voice from behind him.

Chapter Nine

Doc spun and saw Sonya wearing very little, seated on a stone bench beside a pot. “Sonya!? What’re you doing here?” His eyes shifted away from the fit, young woman’s body, but not before he’d seen that her only attire was a chest band and underwear.

Sonya’s lips creased briefly into a smile before settling back to neutral. “I’m your companion during the rite. I’m here to ensure that you’re not cheating, as well as answer any questions you might have.”

“Let me try that again,” Doc said. “Why you?”

“Because I asked to be the one. You hurt me when you gave my blood oath to my father so casually.”

Doc exhaled and went to take a seat across the sunken fire pit from her. “I was trying to spare you.”

Sonya snorted. “You sound like my father.”

“Your father is a good man,” Doc said.

“Do you hate me?” Sonya asked.

“Hate’s a strong word,” Doc replied. “I don’t hate you. Hell, I don’t even dislike you.”

“Yet you’re clearly avoiding looking at me, and gave away my life as if it were worth less than dirt!”

Doc exhaled softly. The hurt in her voice tugged at him. Taking a deep breath, he looked across the firepit to her. “I’m not looking at you because you’re nearly naked.”

“You sleep in a place where the women are in a similar state most of the time. Why am I so different? Is it because of my heritage?”

“No,” Doc said firmly. “It’s because you’re young and beautiful, and as such, should only be seen in such a state by someone who deserves it.”

“Then why wouldn’t you deserve it? You saved me from death! We both know that Whittaker would never have made it to see me. My life was yours. I was… I was yours…” Sonya swallowed as tears began to trickle from her eyes. “Why did you spurn me so harshly? What did I do to deserve being treated like mud?”

Doc grimaced. “Nothing. Truly, Sonya, not a thing. I turned you away because you have no clue who I am, what I’m going to face, or the challenges arrayed before me. I saved your life because your parents love you deeply. That’s why I gave your blood debt to your parents, because I knew they would care for you better than I could.”

“But you’re a good man. You’ve healed dozens of the clan. Your mine is the biggest boon the clan has had in decades. You’ve risked your life to save the sheriff and marshal. All of that proves who you are as a person.”

“Okay, I do help people, but people do that all the time.”

“No,” Sonya said, wiping at her eyes. “Humans rarely go out of their way to help people with other heritages.” Her tone shifted, sounding like someone lecturing, “‘The bestials are unclean animals, elves wild folk who need to be brought to heel, and dwarves are slow and stupid in their thinking. All of these need the guidance of Apoc to help them know their place and to redeem them.’”

“Religion is religion everywhere,” Doc sighed. “The church and I are going to disagree on many points. I’m going to end up in conflicts with powerful people and organizations for my entire life. I’d hate to drag an innocent into it.”

“But you don’t mind dragging the Lily and your lovers into it?”

Doc swallowed and wiped at his sweating brow. “That’s a fair point... they knew what they were getting into, though.”

“And now I do, too,” Sonya said with a victorious smile.

Doc grimaced, seeing the neatly placed logic trap she just used to maneuver him. “You’re smart, Sonya. Why me? And don’t say because I healed you.”

Opening the clay jar next to her, Sonya used a ladle to bring out some water. Taking a sip, she tossed the rest into the pit and a cloud of steam washed up with a hiss. “That’s not an easy question to answer. Initially, it might’ve been a little bit of a crush because you saved my life. A tall, handsome, stranger comes in to rescue me? It has a lot going for it. I wasn’t stupid, though. I went to find out about you, even if it did mean breaking a few mores of the clan.”

“A bit brash.”

“I wanted to know about you, and you were staying there. Where else could I have gone for information about you?”

“Fair,” Doc said, wiping more sweat from his head.

“Do you know what I learned?”

“No.”

“You were kind to the child. It didn’t matter that she was bestial to you. That was the first thing. The new poker being played there was something you introduced. You’d been with two of the women of the establishment, both of whom were bestial. The marshal and sheriff were saved from an ambush because of your intervention. No man I know of, no matter their heritage, was as kind and caring to everyone around him as you have been.”

“You’ve put me on a pedestal, Sonya. That’s not good— I’m just a person. I have my flaws, as well.”

“The only one I’ve seen is that you give everything you have to help the people around you,” Sonya said. “What did I learn after you got back from your first trip out? You wanted dwarves to work your mine, but not just work. No, you wanted Rangvald to be your foreman, my father’s step-brother.”

Doc grunted as he sweated.

“Then you came to speak with me, and I was sure I could reach you,” Sonya said softly, her eyes misting again, “but you took my intention and tossed it at my father’s feet, pressing the pieces into the mud. I was distraught over that.”

“I never meant to hurt you.”

“I was going to find a way to make you pay for casting me aside so casually. I was sure it was because I was a dwarf, but you’re not the kind to hate someone based on their blood. What did you do over the next week? You healed more of the clan, and then left town again.

“I spoke again with Posy,” she continued, “who could say nothing bad of you, and I began to wonder why you would’ve spurned me so harshly. Could it be you hated me for some reason, or was it something more?”

“I don’t hate you, Sonya.”

“You came back from taking the miners out with letters to the clan from Rangvald. Letters that spoke of your generosity, humbleness, and willingness to work with everyone, including a dryad. But that wasn’t enough— you bought the deed to our home and tried to give it to Father. I was so confused and had no idea how I’d ever be able to try to explain my feelings to you, but then my mother gave me a way, and here we are.”

“Here we are...” Doc said softly. “Sonya, I’m going to be up against Goodman, Suez, the sheriff, and likely even the church of Apoc. The people beside me are going to be in the crosshairs right along with me.”

“What if someone else wanted to be there beside you to help?”

Doc just sat there, looking at Sonya, and sighed. “Your mother was right. Fiala, too.”

Sonya’s head cocked to the side as she watched him.

“You won’t give up?”

Sonya just smiled as she scooped some water up and walked toward him. “Even if you reject me again, I won’t accept it easily. Besides, I can help you, if you’d just let me. First, drink some.”

Doc took the offered ladle and drank half of it before handing it back. Sonya’s eyes glittered as she drank the rest of it.

“The rite makes you an honorary member of the clan, but not a full member,” Sonya said as she went back to her seat.

Doc’s eyes trailed down her back to her ass. Her underwear clung to her backside, hiding it but giving a real idea as to what her firm, round butt looked like. Shaking his head, he took a deep breath.

“You know I’m in a relationship with Fiala. Why still push for it?”

“She accepts others being with you, does she not?”

“Yes,” Doc said slowly.

“There are old customs for bestials, elves, and dwarves where powerful people had multiple partners. Even humanity had such stories, but they were buried or dismissed when the church grew in power. Apoc declares all such relationships abominations. Then again, the church also says that sleeping with one of the ‘lesser’ races is a sin, as well.”

Doc snorted. “Same no matter where you go.”

“It makes me think that you don’t hold the same views.”

“I don’t.”

“The dryad... do you sleep with her?” Sonya asked.

Doc considered her request for a moment and thought maybe it would drive her off. “Yes, every time I go out. I force her to bend to my will.”

Sonya watched him carefully, a smile touching her lips. “Then you should have no objection to a dwarf.”

“You’d be sharing me with all of them, and possibly even more— elves and half-elves, at the very least.”

“If that’s what it requires to be able to stand beside you, I will do so willingly.”

Doc scrubbed at his face. “Why?”

“Why? Why does anyone want to spend time with another? How does one define an emotion? You find me attractive; I can see that for myself.”

Doc glanced down at his tented underwear and sighed. “I’ve said you’re beautiful. I’m not denying that, Sonya.”

Nodding, she undid her breast band and exhaled. “Then you won’t mind if I’m more comfortable.”

Coughing, Doc gave up and didn’t look away. “Damned perky, but the young are always gifted that way.”

“You keep calling me young, and yet you’re barely an adult,” Sonya said.

The clan is going to be told after this is over, Doc thought. Might as well see if it’ll back her off. “I’m forty-two, actually.”

Sonya’s eyes narrowed. “No. Humans who are that age have wrinkles near their eyes, at the very least, if not thinning or gray hair.”

“Who said I was human?”

Sonya went quiet for a long moment, taking another drink of water while she stared at him. “I can’t see anything that indicates you as anything but human.”

“How do you feel about half-bloods?” Doc asked, thinking he might have a new avenue.

“Your ears aren’t pointed... you’re not short nor stocky enough, nor do you have animal features. What could you possibly be a half-blood of?”

“Elf and dwarf.”

Sonya sat still and quiet again. “Those two races aren’t cross-fertile,” she said, but there was a hint of doubt to her words.

“I’m a half-breed— elf and dwarf,” Doc said. “There’s a reason I’m going to be hated by a lot of people, including some dwarves, I bet.”

Sonya nodded slowly. “Yes, some of the slower and more stupid ones might have a problem, but if you had a wife from a well-respected family beside you, even they would stay quiet.”

Doc felt like the trap just snapped shut on him, and he’d walked willingly into it. “You don’t care?”

“No. It just makes you even more special.” Sonya gave him a brilliant smile. “You’re favored by a god, are working with everyone who deserves it, and want to make the world a better place. I’m fine with everything. The question becomes are you okay with me?”

Doc stared into her eyes. “What if I treat you like mud, just using you for my own ends?”

“You won’t,” Sonya replied, her own gaze locked on him. “I’ve taken your measure, Doc. All I ask is that you let me do my best for you, for your loved ones, and for us.”

“Your parents will object,” Doc said, trying to play his last card.

Sonya laughed. “No. Mother wouldn’t, to begin with. Father has seen the error of his thinking, and I believe he even told you he regretted taking the blood oath from you.”

“I surrender, Sonya. I won’t agree to marriage, but we can talk and see if we have enough in common for a relationship to work.” Doc got up and moved to sit beside her. “Can I have some more water?”

“Of course,” Sonya grinned, her heart singing with happiness.

~*~*~

The next few hours were interesting for Doc. Sonya didn’t even bat an eye when he told her the full story of how he came to be there. She had a lot of questions about his old world, getting excited about horseless carriages that didn’t involve souls.

Doc was just as excited to learn what she knew about spirit stones. Spirit stones were used when a judge pulled the soul out of someone. The souls were stored in the stones and then used to power various devices. The more evil or good a soul, the more power it would supply.

The soul from the cattle-thief that Wenn had brought in would power one of their trains for years, while a lesser soul could provide power for smaller things, like a vehicle or a home. Doc equated them to electricity, which brought them back to his world again.

Sonya also explained how she’d been hurt— her uncle, Abelard, was an eccentric inventor who’d been working on steam power, trying to displace the monopoly of soul power. His latest attempt at it had burst, collapsing the whole device. Unfortunately, Sonya had been helping him when the device exploded and while she’d been able to get mostly clear in time, a beam crushed her arm.

As they talked, they sipped water and sweated a lot. Doc had difficulties when Sonya would miss her lips and rivulets of water would run down her naked body. Doc had wondered if they were entirely accidental, but then caught a sly smirk on Sonya’s face after one.

Doc felt himself growing fatigued and used healing hands to replace his draining vitality. Sonya watched him closely when he did, a thoughtful look on her face.

“Did you know that when you heal someone, warmth infuses the area?” Sonya asked once he’d finished.

“No, I don’t feel it that way.”

“When you healed me, it was like being held by a loved one and soothed. Now that I think about it, that might be another reason I set my sights on you.”

“Good to know,” Doc said. “How’re you holding up?”

“Fine. This heat is nothing compared to the forges or my uncle’s workshop. By the end of this, I’ll be tired and maybe a little listless until I rest. I’m worried for you, though.”

“My energy will help my draining vitality,” Doc said. “I think I’ll be okay.” Looking at the door, he saw that five hours had passed. “Only nineteen hours to go.”

“More time for talking and getting to know each other,” Sonya said, pushing some damp hair behind her ear. “This has only made me even more interested in you, Doc.”

“Sonya, you’re an amazing woman. It’s been good getting to know more about the world and your family, but what about you? What do you like? What do you want out of life?”

“I haven’t had as much freedom as you’ve had,” Sonya said. “I haven’t had a lot of chances to see what I’d like. If I was male, I could barber like my father. I used to help him as a child, but women can’t be barbers.”

“Stupid,” Doc snorted.

“I agree,” Sonya said. “That’s the law now, though. To be a barber, you have to have passed the official courses, and they won’t let women take them.”

“When idiots are in charge of laws, the country suffers,” Doc said.

“Agreed.”

“I’m going to be leaving town, and possibly the entire area. You know that, right?” Doc asked, changing the topic.

“I figured you would, to spread the word of Luck. I’m willing to be beside you the entire time. What of the others?”

“Not sure if Rosa can leave,” Doc admitted. “Fiala will be going with, at the very least. I’m not sure if anyone else will.”

“Are you going to set up a house of worship so you can heal openly? That’ll draw the ire of the church.”

“The Lily already is,” Doc replied. “I’m sure it will be coming out soon.”

“They would hate you, anyway,” Sonya snorted. “Openly cavorting with a bestial and undergoing the rite to be viewed as a dwarf? You are a very wicked man by their standards. If they knew you were half-dwarf and half-elf, they’d call you an abomination.”

“Sounds like things will get really interesting.”

“Why did you tell me? You could’ve kept it secret.”

“Because I believe that all relationships require three things: trust, honesty, and communication. I’m going to tell the elders after this. I dislike keeping secrets from the people who are going to stand beside me in conflict. That, and I thought it’d make you back off.”

Giggling, Sonya shook her head. “Nope. It didn’t work.”

“I know that, now,” Doc chuckled. “Not sure anything I could’ve said would.”

“Yes,” Sonya said softly, “there is one thing that would have.”

“That I hated you?”

Sonya nodded. “I would’ve been devastated, but it would’ve stopped me.”

“I couldn’t lie like that. I thought you were beautiful the moment I saw you, but I know what life is going to be for me and I didn’t want you to have to endure it.”

“And now?”

“Well, that depends on if I survive this,” Doc chuckled, “and if your dad tries to gut me.”

Sonya shook her head. “He won’t.”

“Then you’ll get to meet Fiala. I love her, and I agreed she’d have to approve of anyone being added.”

Sonya licked her lips. “Do you think you’ll be able to love me, too?”

Doc placed a hand on her knee. “Yes. It might take a bit, but I already find myself loving parts of you.”

“You can touch them, if you’d like,” Sonya said shyly.

Doc started laughing, shaking his head. “Good gods, woman, that wasn’t what I meant! I meant I love how stubborn you are. I mean, not that your tits aren’t damned nice, too.”

Sonya blushed. “Oh.”

Doc bumped her with his shoulder. “I’d take you up on that, but it’d lead to other things, and strenuous exercise in here would kill me.”

Sonya went a deeper red, but she wore a smile. “I don’t want that… the death part, I mean.”

“We’ll do it proper, for your family, but I’m definitely not opposed to the idea,” Doc said.

“Okay.”

Chapter Ten

Doc wiped at his face as he waited. He had to walk out the door under his own power, as Sonya had explained to him. She stood behind him by a dozen feet, making sure no one could say she was supporting him when he exited.

The moment the rune stopped glowing, Doc pulled the door open, though it took him bracing his foot against the wall to manage it. Panting, covered in sweat, and head swimming, Doc staggered forward. Breathing hard, the cool air of the room hit him like a sledgehammer. Gasping as his skin suddenly had relief, Doc stumbled and fell to his knees.

Otto was next to him in an instant. “You made it!” Otto’s voice was part disbelief and part awe. “Here, drink this.” He shoved a small flask into Doc’s hand. “The salve, Greta! We need the salve! His skin is in poor shape.”

“I’m right here, husband,” Greta said as she moved to help. “I can… Sonya?”

“Mother, Father,” Sonya said, shivering a little as she walked out of the sauna. “Please tend to him. I’ll go hydrate and sleep.” She paused long enough to pull a loose dress on.

Otto was still mimicking a landed fish when his daughter left the room. Greta just shook her head and began to apply a salve to the red, inflamed parts of Doc’s body.

“I told you she’d be hard to refuse,” Greta said.

“I stopped trying,” Doc slurred. “She’s a determined lady.”

Otto took a deep breath and turned to Doc. “What happened?”

Doc blinked a few times, trying to figure out which of the three was the real Otto. “Blarmitfz?”

Otto glanced to Greta to help him understand, but Greta shrugged. “I don’t know, either.”

“Doc, what—?” Otto began, then grabbed the unconscious man when he slumped over.

~*~*~

Doc bolted upright, breathing fast as the nightmare faded. Wild-eyed, he found himself not in a burning building, but in a small room on a lightly swaying cot.

“You’re awake. That’s good,” Greta said. “We were worried when you passed out. A few have died like that... making it out the door only to die right afterward.”

Focusing on Greta, Doc croaked out a single word: “Water?”

Greta nodded and presented a small glass to him. “Sip it slowly.”

Taking it with shaky hands, Doc forced himself to sip the cool liquid. The welcome sensation helped him breathe easier. Once he’d finished the glass, he handed it back to her. “Thank you.” His throat still felt rough, but not sandpaper dry.

“Talking while in the sauna for a full day was not the smartest thing,” Greta told him as she refilled the glass. “You injured your throat.”

Doc blinked, willing his stats to appear in front of him.

Doc Holyday- 42

Half-Breed Elf/Dwarf

Voice of Luck

Energy: 14/20

Vitality: 3/20

Health: 8/15

Faith: 25 (75)

Racial Bonuses:

Natural affinity to nature magic, improved reflexes, keen hearing and sight, resistance to poisons, improved vitality, night vision, natural affinity to metal crafts

Goddess Gifts:

All In, Stand Down, Missed Me, Healing Hands, Cleansing, Energy Reserves

Wincing at what he saw, Doc focused on healing hands. When he saw them glowing, he reached up and touched his throat, willing the energy to heal him. Though his energy ticked away, his health returned to full and some of his vitality returned.

“Better...” Doc sighed.

“Why didn’t you do that before?” Greta asked sternly.

“Did, as often as I could,” Doc replied. “I was out of energy, my vitality was barely there, and my health was draining away when the time came. I almost failed to get the door open.”

“Sonya said as much,” Greta said. “She also said that you’ve decided to allow her to court you.”

“I told her that Fiala has to agree,” Doc explained, “but if that happens, then we’ll see about doing it correctly. I don’t know if her being in there with me changes anything.”

“It does,” Greta sighed. “It’s not as bad as you sleeping with her, but it still tarnishes her reputation some.”

“Stubborn and determined,” Doc said.

“Yes. I can’t fault her. I was just as mulish in my youth.”

“I need to speak with the elders still,” Doc said, but his stomach chose that moment to loudly complain about being empty.

“Yes. First, some light soup. It’ll help hydrate you and give your stomach something to be happy with.”

Doc didn’t argue when the smell of chicken soup hit his nose, making his stomach grumble again. Sitting up, he gave her an apologetic shrug and took the bowl.

~*~*~

Doc still felt tired, but he wasn’t suffering any more detrimental effects from the sauna. Greta and Otto walked with him down the hall toward the elders’ room. Otto had been silent from the moment he’d come to tell them that the elders were waiting. Doc wondered if Otto was angry with him or Sonya.

“Otto, I didn’t know she’d be there,” Doc finally said to break the tense silence.

“How could you? Even I didn’t know.” Otto exhaled deeply. “Stubborn child... I know you didn’t do anything to her inside the room— she told me that much, at least— but the doubt will hang over her for everyone else.”

“I’m going to give her a chance at what she wants,” Doc said. “She has to meet Fiala first, but as long as they get along, I’m going to try.”

Otto’s nose wrinkled. “Polygamy?”

“Sonya said it was normal in your past.”

“Yes…” Otto said slowly. “Generations ago, before Apoc became the only religion, and we had shamans to guide us, it was a practice.”

Greta’s breath caught. “Oh…”

Doc felt like he was missing something, but had no idea. Since they were closing on the elders’ door, he tabled his question.

The guard watched them come, knocking when they arrived before opening the doors for them in silence. Doc stepped past the guard and wondered if he was like one of the British guards outside Buckingham Palace.

When the doors shut behind them, Doc bowed his head to the elders. “Elders, it’s good to speak with you again.”

“It is good for us, as well, Mr. Holyday,” the female elder smiled. “We feared that the rite would be the death of you, and that all the good you’d done for us would be tarnished by our allowing you to do it.”

“It was close near the end,” Doc admitted. “Even with what my goddess has granted me, it was barely enough. I don’t know how anyone manages that without divine aid.”

“It’s been a long time since any has survived, so we can’t begin to speculate,” the elder replied. “You are now a member of the clan, and we welcome you.”

“Partial clan member, I was given to understand,” Doc said.

The elder paused a moment before nodding. “Your guide was correct. To fully join the clan, you’d need to marry into it. Being a partial member still allows the clan to treat you like one of us. The debts incurred by members of the clan can be absorbed by the clan itself. The deed debt for your friends is already accepted by us, along with all the good you’ve done for us. Our debt as a clan to you is steep, but we will manage, as you are one of us.”

“‘Debts between clan members have a long life for paying back,’” Doc repeated what Sonya had told him, “‘including my children if, or when, I have them. The clan will do their best to make sure the debt is paid back.’”

“Yes. You don’t seem interested in monetary payment, so we will repay you however we can in other ways. Do you have any ideas as to how we can do so?”

“Goodwill with other clans,” Doc said. “I’ll leave this town eventually, and being able to have contacts and goodwill would go a long way to helping.”

The elders exchanged a look and nodded. “We can arrange for word of your good deeds and debt to pass from clan to clan.”

“Thank you, elders. There is one more thing that I must tell you— this is something that I’m telling only to those deeply invested with me, as trust must be given for us to work smoothly together. You believe me human?”

“Yes,” one of the male elders answered.

“I’m not human. I’m half-elf and half-dwarf.”

All three elders looked shocked, and Doc took a seat on the floor across from them. “The story about that is a bit longer, as I didn’t have parents in this world. Let me explain who I am, where I came from, and then why I’m here.”

~*~*~

“That is the full story, honored elders,” Doc finished. “I would ask that information not pass beyond the clans.”

All the elders stared at him with a range of emotions; hope on the elder female, curiosity on the first male, and disdain on the last elder.

“Half-breed with an elf?” the disdainful elder asked. “Even a god should know better than to allow that.”

“Idiot!” the elder female snapped at him. “Don’t you know what this means?”

“That we should sever ties!” he spat back.

“No,” the other male elder said calmly. “That we can have a shaman again.”

“Yes,” the female said. “None of the other clans have one. If he agrees, we would gain prestige and influence.”

“None of them will accept a half-breed,” the disdainful elder sneered.

“And this is why I pass as human,” Doc shrugged. “Elders, I don’t want to cause dissent. I’ll come back when you need me, but I have other business to see to.”

“Why would we ever have need of you?” the one elder snapped at him.

“We appreciate your offer, Mr. Holyday,” the female said while staring at the one being rude. “We will surely ask to speak with you again.”

“Indeed, after we handle some business of our own,” the other male elder said.

“You can call me Doc. I’m a rather informal person. Good day to you all. Even you, sir,” Doc added with a nod to the elder staring at him with hatred.

Otto and Greta followed Doc out of the room, both quiet as they processed what they’d heard. The guards watched them go. Three angry voices started arguing in Dwarvish before the door closing cut them off.

“Elder Creager is stuck in some old hatreds,” Greta said as they walked down the hall.

“That’s the one who wanted to see me flayed?” Doc asked.

“Yes,” Greta replied, “but Elders Koch and Becker are both more forward-thinking.”

“Which was which?” Doc asked.

“Becker was the female,” Otto said. “She has the right of it, too.”

“You mean me being a shaman?” Doc asked. “What does that mean?”

“Shamans were the ones who helped us stay true to the ways of the gods. They were also often the sole leader of a clan, though there used to be wandering shamans who would visit clans and help them when they had no shaman of their own.”

“A little simplistic,” Greta said, “but not wrong. Shamans were, to us, the spiritual advisors that we looked to. During our conflict with the elves, our shamans and theirs would meet to try to find peaceful solutions, or when that failed, would fight single combats to spare the tribe and clan the loss of the young.”

“What became of the shamans?” Doc asked.

“The church,” Otto said. “They cast doubt into the mind and hearts of the clans, and when people began to question them, the church would send one of their preachers to discredit the shaman further. Those few shamans who could prove stronger, those rare few, wound up dying at the hands of zealots. Those who stayed safe inside the clan’s strongholds eventually passed on, and the role of shaman faded.”

“So being the shaman of the clan would be painting a big target on my back for the church,” Doc said.

“It would,” Greta sighed. “The elders will surely think of that once they calm down.”

“Shamans can practice healing without the need of a house of worship,” Doc said slowly, “and I’m assuming the other clans would welcome a shaman who visited them?”

Otto looked uncomfortable. “Some might, others… well, some clans have divorced themselves from the old ways entirely. They will denounce you and try to hand you to the church.”

“Knowing which clans would welcome me would be good to know,” Doc said.

“Doc,” Greta said softly, “please be kind to Sonya. She’s young and headstrong, but she’s already devoted herself to you. I fear what might come if you turn her away now.”

“I’m hoping that she and Fiala can coexist,” Doc said. “Have faith.”

“Luck,” Otto murmured under his breath, but Doc heard the word clearly.

Chapter Eleven

The sun had risen to past midday by the time Doc returned to the Lily. Most of the tables had games running and nearly full seats. Heather was playing an upbeat number and Jasmine was dancing on the stage.

Fiala spotted him, the worry that had been on her face melting away. Doc’s heart tightened when he saw her concern. Crossing the room, Doc gave her an apologetic smile, then a hug when he got to her.

“I’m sorry, Fiala. I would’ve been back sooner, but the rite was a little more difficult than I’d anticipated,” he murmured as he held her.

“I was so worried...” Fiala sniffled. “I was debating going to the dwarves and asking about you.”

“That would’ve been interesting,” Doc said. “Let me get some clothes for a bath.”

“Yes, you could use one,” Fiala agreed, having gotten a good whiff of him. “You go get the water ready, and I’ll bring you a clean set of clothes.”

“Deal,” Doc said, kissing her cheek as they separated.

Stepping into the back, Doc wasn’t expecting the excited voice, nor the attack from behind. “Doc!” Posy exclaimed as she grabbed onto him.

“Easy,” Doc said when he nearly fell over. “I’m back. I was only gone for a day.”

“But Fiala and Lotus were worried, and even Lia looked concerned!” Posy babbled as she squeezed his waist.

“I didn’t mean to worry all of you,” Doc said, patting her head awkwardly, as she still hadn’t let go of him. “If you let me turn around, I can give you a hug.”

Posy let go and stepped back, her cheeks flushed red as she looked down. “Sorry.”

“No sorry needed,” Doc said as he scooped her off the ground and hugged her. “There. A big hug for a big girl.”

Posy let out a little squeal as she hugged him back. “You’re okay, right?” she asked after a moment.

Doc set her down gently. “I’m okay now. I did what I needed to.”

“She isn’t bothering you, I hope, Doc?” Daf asked from the kitchen doorway, drawn by Posy’s voice.

“No. Can I get something for an uneasy stomach to eat in about an hour?”

Daf gave him a concerned look, then nodded. “I’ll make you something light.”

“You smell,” Posy said as she stepped back, her nose wrinkled up.

“Posy!” Daf gasped, aghast at her daughter.

“No, it’s fine. She’s right— I do stink,” Doc said. “Fiala is getting me some clothes, and I’m going to go bathe. I’ll have clothes for cleaning in a few.”

“Okay,” Posy said.

Doc gave her a smile and headed for the bathroom. Stripping down once he was inside, Doc got the tub filled with lukewarm water, as he didn’t want any more heat today. He was just sinking into it when the door opened, admitting Fiala.

“I heard Posy said hi,” Fiala smiled tightly.

“Told me how worried everyone was,” Doc said. “Didn’t mean to worry you all.”

“What happened?” Fiala asked as she set his clothing on the table. “I know you’d be gone a day, but we expected you back earlier.”

“Well, it’s a long story.”

“You can tell me while I wash you,” Fiala said as she stripped her own clothes off.

“Well, I had to survive a sauna for a full day,” Doc said. “I managed it, but it was tougher than I’d anticipated.”

“That should’ve killed you,” Fiala said, stopping for a moment.

“Honestly, it almost did,” Doc said. “A lot closer than I hoped.”

Fiala swallowed. “Doc, please be careful. If you die…”

“I know, but it had to be done, and I did everything I could. Luckily, I won’t have to do that again, but another complication came up.”

“What?” Fiala asked, setting her clothing aside and picking up some soap.

“Sonya.”

“What’d she do?” Fiala asked, sitting on the stool next to the tub. “Goodness! Why is the water so cold?”

“Because I’ve had enough heat for today,” Doc said wryly.

Fiala took a deep breath. “Okay. Tell me, please?”

~*~*~

Doc’s explanation of the rite and what happened with the elders afterward took longer than he thought it would. He had been talking so long that he was washing Fiala in warm water by the time he finished.

“I see,” Fiala said softly. “Sonya would be helpful to you?”

“I’m not sure, but she’s earnest and honest in her wish. Damned determined, too. It’s possible that she could help a great deal when we have to deal with different clans, but that doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is if you are okay with her.”

Fiala turned in the tub to face him. “Do you find her attractive?”

The image of Sonya sitting nearly nude in the sauna with him came to his mind unbidden. “I do. She’s completely different from you or Rosa.”

Fiala nodded and stood up, but before she could say anything, there was a knock on the door.

“Dinner will be ready in a couple of minutes,” Posy announced through the door.

“Time for dinner,” Doc said as he stood up and went to get Fiala a towel. Looking back over his shoulder, he gave her a wink. “And after that, some dessert.”

Fiala smiled warmly. “I do enjoy dessert.”

~*~*~

Doc seated Fiala and was just about to take his own seat when Lia entered the dining room. “Lia, it’s good to see you.”

“Do you mind if I join you both?” Lia asked.

“Not at all,” Fiala smiled.

Lia nodded and took a seat. “I didn’t know if you were having a private dinner. It would be rude of me to interrupt that.”

“Dinner is fine,” Doc said. “Dessert would be a different matter.”

“I don’t know about that,” Fiala giggled.

Lia shook her head with an amused smile. “I’ll pass. For now, at least. I wanted to hear what happened with your meeting, and wanted to tell you that the Beavertons have started working.”

“What’re they starting with?”

“The old saloon,” Lia replied as Posy and Daf brought dinner in. “They want to get it as done as possible before joining the two and remodeling in here, so we can continue business with minimal interruptions.”

“Makes sense.” Looking at Daf and Posy, Doc smiled. “Thank you both.”

“You’re very welcome, Doc,” Daf said. “I hope it’s light enough on your stomach.”

They had brought out a salad with diced chicken, cheese, and a single sliced egg. They also served tea to accompany it.

“Looks like it’ll be perfect,” Doc said. “I should be back to normal tomorrow. Thank you for giving me this special meal tonight.”

“I’ll make whatever you need,” Daf said.

“She will,” Lia said. “You don’t need to have what she makes for everyone else unless you want to.”

“I’m normally fine with whatever she has ready, but tonight, I’m going easy.”

“So, what happened during your time away?” Lia asked as she sipped at her tea.

“Well,” Doc sighed as he began mixing his salad up more, “it wasn’t a fun day.”

~*~*~

They had all finished eating dinner by the time Doc finished this retelling of his ordeal.

“Interesting,” Lia said, looking thoughtful. “And you’ll be okay with this?” She directed the question to Fiala.

“That was what we agreed on,” Fiala said. “As long as I agree and approve of them, it’s fine. The dryad I’ve already agreed to. As for Sonya... I’m unsure. I’ve only spoken to her in passing when she was trying to find out more about Doc.”

“Hmm...” Lia sipped the last of her tea. “And those who are approved would be going with you?”

“I don’t know about that,” Doc said. “We haven’t gotten to that point yet. I also wouldn’t expect everyone to just pick up and come with. They might want to stay close to family, and I wouldn’t stop them. Going with me will increase the danger.”

“Yes, it would,” Lia agreed. “You’ll need someone beside you who can help keep you all safe. I’m also assuming that Ayla will be going, as someone needs to help you keep track of the businesses.”

“Probably,” Doc said slowly. “I haven’t asked her yet, and it’s a moot point until we’ve finished with the town.”

“That’s true. Have you talked with Sonya about when she’ll come to speak with Fiala?”

“No. I haven’t seen her since I walked out of the rite.”

“Fiala, I’ll let Jasmine and Cassia know that if she comes while you’re working, they should arrange for one of the others to give you a break.”

“Thank you, Lia.”

“A relationship is tough, and one with multiple partners can be tougher still,” Lia said softly. “It can also bring you some of the brightest points you will know.” Rising gracefully, she gave them a smile. “Enjoy your dessert.” With a knowing smirk, she left them alone.

Doc watched her go and he wondered if Lia had known a similar relationship in her past. The thought was pushed out of his head when Fiala’s hand caressed his thigh.

“Are you up for some dessert, Doc?”

“Yes,” Doc smiled.

They’d just left the back and hadn’t yet touched the stairs before Heather called out, “Doc, do you have time for a song or two?”

Doc was about to tell her no, but Fiala kissed his cheek. “Go. Play a few songs and then come find me.”

Doc gave her a raised eyebrow, which got him a wink in return. “I can stop for a couple of songs,” he replied to Heather as Fiala went up the stairs.

“Oh, one for me, please?” Jasmine asked, coming toward the stage.

Doc chuckled. “I’ll start with the first one I played. After that, it’ll be Heather’s show.”

“I do like a man who knows when to let a woman lead,” Heather grinned.

“A true gentleman will always let the lady lead unless she wishes otherwise,” Doc said as he took a seat beside her.

“Can that song be played at the same time, high and low?” Heather asked.

“Never done it before... why not? Let’s give it a go,” Doc said as he cracked his knuckles. An excited current caught his attention and he looked around the room to see most of the people watching them. “And we have a rapt audience. Ready?”

“You start, and I’ll join in on the second bar,” Heather said.

“Done,” Doc replied as his hands touched the ivory keys.

The song was a resounding success— most of the room tapped along to the beat, and Jasmine danced her heart out. She waved off the few men who called out to her when she finished, instead leaning against the railing and watching the two of them play the next song.

Heather chose to repeat the back and forth battle they had before. Doc did his best to keep up, but he wasn’t up to Heather’s level of skill. After they’d gone back and forth for a while, she upped the difficulty until he failed. The crowd was applauding and whistling by the end of it.

Doc stood, turning to face the crowd, and bowed. “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I have a prior engagement, otherwise, I’d stay and play longer. However, the wonderful and talented Heather will continue to put her talents on display for your entertainment.”

People called for him to stay, but Doc waved them off as he made for the stairs. Heather began to play Green Onions again, and Doc chuckled as he thought about Fiala waiting for him.

Chapter Twelve

Leaving the Lily the next morning, Doc went to Henrick’s shop. The chime announced him, and Henrick called out she’d be right there as Doc closed the door.

“No rush,” Doc called back. He took his time looking over the shop, trying to get a better understanding of what he was seeing.

“Oh, Mr. Holyday? I’m sorry. I’d have hurried if I’d known,” the old woman said.

“Doc. Call me Doc,” he corrected her gently. “I came to see about healing you more.”

“Of course,” Henrick said. “Let me just close the shop.”

“I’ll get the sign and door,” Doc said, being closer to it.

It only took a minute to close the shop and go into the back. Taking a seat in the small sitting room he’d been in before, he waited for her to sit.

“Tea? Would you like some?” Henrick asked, clearly trying her best to be a good hostess.

“I’m fine,” Doc said. “Have a seat. I just stopped by to heal you more before I go off on other business.”

“Right. Sorry, Mist… Doc,” Henrick finished lamely as she took the other chair.

“You’ve been good?” Doc asked.

“No problems with breathing at all,” Henrick replied. “Do you really believe you can heal me so I can have kids?”

Doc gave her a soft smile, picking up on the hopefulness to her tone. “Yes, but it’s going to tax me like your lungs did. Did you already have someone lined up?”

“Not yet, but I hope,” Henrick said.

“I’ll do that first, then, but we’ll have to get to your eyes and addictions. What are you addicted to?”

“Tobacco, alcohol, green leaf, sleepy powder, and coffee.”

“The powder is for helping someone sleep, but green leaf?”

Henrick got up and picked something up, then brought it back to show him. “This is green leaf.”

The plant was similar to marijuana, and the smell was nearly identical. “Relaxes you, makes you a little hungry?”

“Yes. Helps me forget about pain, too.”

“I can cleanse your body of the addictions, but staying off them will be up to you. That’ll be later, though. Sit, please.”

Henrick took a seat and held out her hands to him.

Doc took her hands in his and spoke softly, “Lady, please help my friend and ally. She is sick, and that sickness is stopping her from having children.” The moment he stopped talking, his hands glowed green, and Doc forced his energy to push into Henrick and go for the cancer in her uterus.

Henrick inhaled sharply through her nose when his energy rushed into her. Eyes closing, she began to rock in her seat.

“Done,” Doc said later, feeling tired. “You’re cleansed and ready to have kids if you find someone. At your age, I’m not sure it’ll be easy, but it is possible.”

Henrick took her hands from his and wiped at her face. Tears were streaming from her eyes. “Bless you and Luck. Bless you, Doc.”

“It’s fine,” Doc said softly as he got to his feet and patted her shoulder gently. “No need to thank me. I’m just doing the work she would have me do. Take a moment to compose yourself. I’ll unlock and turn the sign as I go out. Is it okay to take a small healing vial or three with me at cost?”

Henrick nodded and continued to wipe at her eyes. “Anything you need, it’s yours. This healing isn’t part of the contract, and I feel better paying something back for it.”

~*~*~

Stepping out of the shop, Doc came to an abrupt halt when he saw Sonya standing there. “Morning, Sonya.”

Sonya glanced at the shop, then looked back at him. “Morning, Doc. Is she open?”

“Yeah, I was just finishing up some business. Fiala’s looking forward to talking with you.”

Sonya’s eyes lit up. “I’ll go see her as soon as I’m done here.”

“Alright,” Doc said. “Good luck.”

“I’m sure she will smile upon me,” Sonya said, watching him walk away.

~*~*~

Doc entered the clerk’s office and found it empty of anyone else besides the clerk. “Excuse me, ma’am?”

Elta, the clerk, blinked at him, looking at him with concern. After a moment, she bowed her head. “I’m sorry.”

Doc frowned. “For what?”

“My husband... You healed him. He’s energetic again. He got out of bed two days ago for the first time in over a year, but all he’s done is denounce you and speak of how he’s going to go to the church.”

“Hmm, yeah... that’ll be a problem,” Doc said. “It was going to happen eventually, though, so don’t think it’s your fault. I’m glad he’s doing okay.”

Elta looked up, a little uncertain. “The preacher will not be happy, and he will cause you trouble.”

“We registered the Lily as a place of worship. It’d come out in time, anyway. I know the church will have problems with me. I accept that and will cross that bridge when I have to.”

Elta’s hands fluttered in front of her. “You don’t seem worried about it.”

“Doesn’t matter if it’s going to be a problem or not. I’ll just keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

“Is there something I can do for you?” Elta asked, clearly troubled about the situation.

“I wanted to see how he was doing, but I knew better than to ask him directly,” Doc said.

“Yes, that would’ve been a problem,” Elta said. “Umm... but you healed him at our home, which a spirit healer can’t do legally. You can only heal the people that come to your place of worship.”

Doc exhaled. “Fuck. Can I see the laws on that again, please? I need to make sure I know everything I can and can’t do.”

“Of course,” Elta said, getting the book. “I’ll cover the cost of this, as a thank you.”

“There’s no need, but I won’t stop you,” Doc said as he took a seat. “What page?”

“Page two hundred and eighty-three, and the third page of the addendum in the back, as well.”

“Thank you.”

~*~*~

Doc exhaled when he closed the book. “Okay, well… that’s going to take some adjusting. Should’ve paid a bit more attention to the rules.”

Elta came over to the counter as he stood up. “I’ve already spoken to my daughter. You never visited our home if we’re asked.”

“Okay. I’ll make sure to hold to that, too,” Doc said as he placed the book on the counter. “How is she taking it?”

“She was so happy that he was doing better, but the more he spoke against you, the more she withdrew from speaking with him. I fear the rift between them is greater than it ever was.”

“Shit,” Doc sighed under his breath. “I didn’t mean fo—”

“No. She doesn’t blame you, nor do I. He didn’t believe in Apoc like this until his illness started to get worse. As it did, he turned to the church. He would read the book and say the prayers every night.” Elta looked down. “We would pray with him... not that we believed, but because it would make him happy. The church could never help him like you did.”

Doc nodded. “I see. I’ll be going, but don’t feel bad about what may happen. I was, and am, glad to have helped.”

“How can you be so calm when it means opposing the church?” Elta murmured, watching him go.

Doc walked down the hall to the records department when he left the clerk. Entering the room, he gave Sophia a nod. “Afternoon, miss.”

“Oh.” Sophia’s face flickered through a dozen emotions upon seeing him. “Morning, sir.”

“I just wanted to stop in and let you know not to worry. Everything will work out, and I’d have come to the attention of the church eventually. I spoke with your mother and she told me what has been happening.”

Sophia’s gaze fell. “He shouldn’t be acting this way... I tried to talk with him, but he just got angry and yelled at me.”

Doc’s sharp eyes caught the sight of a fading bruise on her cheek and his lips tightened. “Only yelled?”

Sophia looked away, not meeting his eyes. “We quarreled over whether you’d helped him or not. He refuses to accept that you healed him where the church didn’t... Claims his improved health is the work of Apoc so he can help denounce you.”

“But he is healthy, and that’s what you wanted,” Doc said.

“Not if it costs you. You didn’t have to help us. You put yourself in harm’s way to do so.”

“Luck wants me to help everyone. Well, those who’ll turn away from the Darkness, at least. Don’t hate him, though. Just be there to help him if he needs it. Maybe in time, he’ll open his eyes to the truth, but until then, do your best to wait.”

Sophia sniffled and wiped at her nose. “How can you be so calm? The preacher is going to know. The church doesn’t abide spirit healers.”

“Because I have Luck on my side, and even a hard road still needs to be walked,” Doc said. “Don’t lash out. Don’t yell and scream. Just keep putting one foot in front of the next.”

“I’ve said prayers to Lady Luck every night since you healed him. I believe, even if he doesn’t. Mother has said them with me when she can without causing an argument.”

“That’s all I’d ask. The world’s in bad shape, but I’m going to do my best to help. Just stay true to your belief and give it time.”

“Yes, sir.”

“And try to be understanding. When one steeps themselves in falsehoods, it can be hard to see the truth. A bright light can pierce the darkest of nights, and light will shine again.”

Sophia wiped her nose and nodded. “I will. I’ll do my best.”

“Have a good day, miss,” Doc said softly. “If you have need, go to the Lily. I’ll be there or they’ll be able to get word to me.”

“I will.”

Doc gave her a smile before walking out the door.

Chapter Thirteen

It was just after noon when Doc left the courthouse. I knew the church would find out about me eventually, but I didn’t think it’d be at the hands of someone I helped... Ah well. Luck has me here for a reason, and she knows I’ll walk the hard roads.

Lost in his thoughts, Doc failed to notice the grungy-looking man staring at him, nor when he motioned to another man down the street. The second man nodded and crossed the street so he’d be walking directly toward Doc. Behind him, the first man pushed off the side of the building he’d been leaning on to follow him.

Doc was just reaching an alley when someone slammed their shoulder into him, spinning him into the narrow passage. “Excuse you!” Doc grunted as he came to a stop.

“If you insist,” the grungy man said, stepping in front of Doc with his gun in hand. “You can give me your money and I’ll excuse you. If it’s not at least a hundred, well... you’re going to have to make up the balance in another way.”

Doc frowned, as the man facing him looked vaguely familiar. “That’s fine.” Doc moved slowly, not wanting the mugger to react rashly. “I’m not sure what I have on me, so we’ll find out together.” As he talked, he made sure he triggered missed me.

“If I see a gun, I’ll plug you quick!” the man snarled. “Marshal ain’t here to save you this time, and I ain’t forgot how much you cost me.”

That brought the man into focus for Doc— he was the miner who’d brought back the sick horse. Doc pulled out the coin purse he carried and held it out to the man. “Here you go.”

“No. Open it and start counting. I’ll keep my gun.”

Doc nodded. “Okay.” He looked over his shoulder and spotted a barrel. “Can I move to that so you can see me counting? I’d rather not count wrong and get shot.”

The man frowned, but nodded. “Any funny business and I shoot.”

“Understood,” Doc said as he walked slowly backward, the barrel only ten feet behind him.

Reaching the barrel, Doc dumped the contents of his purse onto it. The sound of metal coins clinking brought the miner’s focus onto the glittering coins, and his gun barrel dropped away from Doc’s chest. Doc gambled on the distraction, his hand dipping into his vest pocket.

The miner’s eyes darted to Doc as Doc’s derringer came clear of his vest. Eyes widening, the man brought the gun back up and fired.

Doc felt the coldness as the round passed through him. Before the second shot could hit him, he’d cocked and fired his first shot. The miner staggered back, clutching at his gut, firing off a second round, which whizzed past Doc’s head.

Inhaling sharply, Doc fired the second round and ducked behind the barrel. Fumbling with the two extra rounds he carried in his vest pocket, he did his best to get the small gun reloaded.

“Bobby?” another voice called out. “Shit, he shot you!” Kneeling next to Bobby, the man grimaced. “Fuck, man, I don’t think you’re gonna make it.” Picking up the gun, he looked down the alleyway and didn’t see anyone. “Did you get the cash, at least?”

“Bar… bar...” Bobby gasped before his eyes rolled up.

“What? Oh, barrel. The cash!” The second man left the dead man and rushed to the barrel.

Doc got his small gun closed and latched, pulling back the hammer just as the second man reached the barrel and saw him. “Bad day.”

The man screamed and fired a wild round as he tried to bring his gun up. Doc felt tearing pain hit his leg before he fired twice in quick succession. Panting in discomfort as the other man collapsed on the far side of the barrel, Doc looked down and saw blood flowing from his leg.

“Someone get the sheriff!” a voice cried from the alley’s entrance.

Grimacing, Doc pulled out the vial he’d picked up that morning and drank it. The pain in his leg ebbed, but it began to itch furiously. Using healing hands, he touched his leg and the sensation vanished. Knowing Grange would be coming, he slipped the handkerchief from his pocket and wrapped it around what had been the wound.

Leaning against the wall, he emptied out the derringer and put it back into his vest. He breathed slowly as he waited, but it wasn’t long before Grange and the deputies arrived.

“Close off the alley! Look for signs of what happened!” Grange barked in command.

“By the barrel, Sheriff,” Doc said.

“Come out with your hands visible,” Grange growled.

“Easy for you to say. You weren’t shot in the leg,” Doc said as he put both hands on the barrel and pulled himself up as if his leg was not fully healed. “Afternoon.”

“Holyday!” Grange spat. “Two more dead, is it?”

“I was being robbed,” Doc retorted.

“Only one gun,” one of the deputies pointed out.

“Two men with a single gun, but both of them are shot,” Grange said, an evil smile touching his lips. “Hard to talk your way out of this one.”

Doc motioned to the man further away. “He was robbing me. He was by the barrel, making me count out the coin. When he focused on the money, I drew and shot him twice. Ducking behind the barrel to reload, his accomplice came to check on him and picked up the gun. We exchanged shots, he winged my leg, and I got him.”

The deputies had been sniffing around the alley, and one of them checked Doc’s leg. “Bloody, but not bleeding now.”

“Vial,” Doc said, pointing to the empty bottle next to his boot.

The deputy picked it up and sniffed it. “Henrick’s stuff. Healing.”

Grange glowered at the deputy, who shifted back a few feet. His tail went down and he softly whimpered.

“That’s what happened,” Doc said to pull Grange’s hard glare off the deputy. He began putting his money back in his coin purse. “They caught me coming out of the courthouse.”

“Why rob you?” Grange asked pointedly. “How would they know you had coin?”

“The first guy I ran into at the livery a month ago,” Doc said. “He was trying to sell back a colic and was threatening the clerk. The marshal intervened and I gave him a verbal recounting of what had transpired. He took offense and apparently, held a grudge.”

“Spot, go check with the livery about the incident,” Grange said.

The deputy near Doc took off running, and Doc kept his face blank at hearing the bestial’s name.

“Can I go now, Sheriff?” Doc asked. “I’d like to get my leg seen to.”

“Fido, make sure he makes it wherever he’s going, and keep an eye on him. Until we hear from the livery, he’s a suspect.”

“Yes, sir,” the second deputy replied.

Doc pocketed his purse. “I’ll be going slow,” he told Fido as he began to walk away from Grange, making sure his pace was slow and slightly limping.

Away from the alley, Doc exhaled. “He can be quite abrasive, can’t he?”

Fido didn’t reply, but Doc got the feeling the deputy was looking over his shoulder.

“A question, if you don’t mind? How did you and your brother come to work for him?”

Fido stayed silent for a moment and Doc thought he wasn’t going to answer, but he did start speaking after a while, “No one else would hire us, and we can track better than anyone else in town.”

“Are you under contract?”

“No, but we owe him,” Fido replied.

“I understand the sentiment,” Doc said softly. “How long are you going to work for him? Until you’ve paid enough?”

Fido didn’t reply.

“Something to consider: good men are hard to find, and the Lily needs good men. If you and your brother want a new job, with better pay and a boss who treats you like they do everyone they deal with, there are jobs open for you. You’ve been fair and always stick to the truth, which I think is the best trait someone can have. The choice is yours.”

Fido didn’t say anything, but Doc thought he could hear the gears turning in the bestial’s head.

“Grange hates you,” Fido said softly.

“I called him deputy that first day,” Doc admitted. “I had no idea he was the sheriff. He took offense to it.”

Fido covered a laugh with a cough. “He would. You implied he was like us.”

“I would never do that,” Doc said. He let the statement sit there before he followed up with, “After all, you’ve been decent to me, and I’d hate to insult a good man.”

Fido nearly stumbled, but managed to keep walking. “We aren’t men.”

“With that voice, you surely aren’t a woman,” Doc said casually, “so, you’re a man, even if you aren’t human.”

Fido sniffed loudly. “Neither are you.”

“Never said I was,” Doc replied. “I just let people assume what they will.”

“We haven’t told him,” Fido said after a moment. “You’ve been kind to us, even when we treat you like a criminal.”

“Well, I have been in a number of questionable situations,” Doc admitted.

“Innocent every time,” Fido said.

“I have Luck on my side,” Doc chuckled.

“You smell different when you say that,” Fido sniffed deeply. “Clean, crisp, nice.”

“A lady should be that, and Luck is a lady,” Doc replied as they reached the Lily. “I won’t be leaving the building unless someone comes for me.”

Fido nodded. “I will sit inside and make sure you don’t leave. Grange’s orders.”

“If I do need to leave, I’ll come find you,” Doc said. “Until then,” he entered the building, “I’m part owner, so your food and drink are on me.”

Fido’s lips pursed. “Bribe?”

“Nope, but you’re on guard duty, and a guard that’s hungry or thirsty is not as attentive. If it makes you feel better, you can pay for your own, though.”

“Doc?” Fiala asked as she traded her dealer’s spot with Lotus.

“I ran into some trouble on the way back,” Doc said lightly. “The deputy here is to make sure Grange knows where I am.” He went to the bar, where Cassia was switching out with Jasmine. “Cassia, the deputy can have drinks and food on me if he wants, or he can pay for himself. Either way, make sure he’s well cared for, please.”

“Sure, Doc,” Cassia said, looking at Fido. “What can I get you?”

“I’ll be in the dining room conducting business,” Doc told Fido, who was standing there, looking uncertain. “Will you let me know when Grange decides to stop this, please?”

Fido nodded slowly before turning back to Cassia. “Tea?”

“Of course, Deputy.”

Fiala followed Doc into the back, her eyes locked on the bloody pants and handkerchief on his calf. “Doc? What happened?”

“I’ll tell you once we’re sitting down,” Doc said.

“I’d like to hear it, as well,” Lia said, coming out of her room.

“Right this way, then,” Doc said, opening the private dining room. “And don’t worry— I’m not injured anymore.”

Fiala swallowed. “Which means you were. Again.”

“Yeah. It could’ve been bad, but Luck was with me.”

~*~*~

“Odd that he’d try to do something now,” Lia said once Doc finished telling his story.

“Probably ran out of money,” Doc said. “Rumor of the mine has to have been spreading by now, too.”

“Maybe,” Lia said. “What of the dwarves? Have they come to a decision?”

“Not that I know of, but Sonya ran into me at Henrick’s.”

“She came by and talked with me,” Fiala said.

Before she could elaborate, there was a knock on the door before Posy stuck her head in. “Dinner?”

“Please,” Doc said.

“Three, Posy,” Lia added.

“Three,” Posy nodded, leaving to go tell her mother.

“What about Sonya?” Doc asked.

“We talked, and will talk again,” Fiala said with a smile. “She sounded quite determined when we spoke earlier.”

“As stubborn as me,” Doc said.

“Having a dwarf beside you might make speaking with the other clans easier,” Lia said. “The same could be said for having an elf beside you to speak with the tribes.”

“Hmm, that’s true. I’m only a partial member of the clan here,” Doc said. “I’d have to marry into the clan to be fully accepted. Not sure how that would work as a shaman.”

“You do know that the tribes used to have shamans, as well?” Lia asked.

“I came to understand that with Rosa,” Doc nodded. “It was your shamans who helped bottle the nectar.”

“That was a minor part of what they did,” Lia said. “A shaman visiting the tribes would be big news to all the tribes. However, with you being as human-looking as you are, it would be tough to sell them on that unless you had a known and trusted elf beside you.”

Doc looked thoughtful. “Jesamin might be good for that... but that would leave the mine without their scout. That isn’t a good idea, after all.”

“Jesamin would be acceptable, at least to the closest tribes,” Lia said, “but as you said, that would leave the mine more vulnerable.”

“Ayla wouldn’t work because she’s a half-elf?” Doc asked, even though he knew the answer.

“Neither she nor Heather would work,” Lia said. “As much as I love my musician, she would not fare well outside this town.”

“A bridge to cross at a later date, though being viewed as a shaman for both the elves and dwarves does sound like it would help a great deal.”

Another knock on the door announced Posy and Daf with dinner, which stopped their conversation.

Chapter Fourteen

The next morning, Doc was finishing breakfast when a knock on his door got his attention. “Yeah?”

“Excuse me, Doc?” Otto asked, opening it and coming inside. “The elders would like to speak with you.”

“Figured they would once things settled down for them,” Doc said. “I just finished, so we can go.” He leaned over and kissed Fiala’s cheek. “See you later.”

“I look forward to it,” Fiala smiled. “We might have a guest for dinner.”

“Okay,” Doc nodded and scooped up his hat on the way out.

Otto blinked at Doc, but didn’t say anything until they were outside. “Didn’t expect to see you with a gun on your hip.”

“Almost got killed again yesterday,” Doc said matter-of-factly. “I don’t care for guns, but I’d rather have it and not need it than repeat what happened.”

“What happened?” Otto asked.

Doc explained as they walked through town. While they traveled, Doc noticed one of the deputies trailing them. “Looks like Grange just wants an excuse,” Doc sighed.

“Huh?”

“One of his deputies is following us a half street back. No, don’t look,” Doc said. “It’ll just make it worse.”

“But why is he wanting you followed?” Otto asked.

“That’s another story,” Doc snorted. “Long story short, I called him a deputy on my first day in town. He’s held a grudge ever since.”

“He looks down on the bestials,” Otto said slowly. “Pity. He’s a good man, otherwise.”

“I’m not so sure about that,” Doc said softly. “He lets known killers off with flimsy excuses, but grills a man who defends himself?”

Otto fell silent, having no reply to that.

~*~*~

Doc gave the two elders a smile. “Good morning, elders.”

“Good morning to you, Doc,” Becker replied. “Thank you for coming.”

“I said I would when you needed me. What can I do for the clan?”

“We have a few questions, Doc,” Koch said, clearly uncomfortable with the informality Doc wanted. “If you don’t mind?”

“I’ll answer what I can.”

“The mine is being aided by Jesamin, an elven huntress of local fame. How did this come to be?”

“Rangvald hired her,” Doc replied. “She’s proven a valuable asset, from what I’ve seen and heard.”

“You’re in business with Lillianna Treeheart. Does it end at the Lily?”

Doc raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

“We’d like to know how deep your ties are with the remnants of the tribe in the area.”

“Lia and I have a business relationship revolving around the Lily, but it might expand from there. I hope to help everyone in the town who wants to be free of the Darkness pervading the area.”

“Darkness?” Becker asked, clearly wanting to move away from the other topics.

“I know the elves have songs about it, but I’m not sure what the dwarves know,” Doc said. “Luck showed me the Darkness that encroaches on planets, slowly killing them until they fall completely. I’m fairly certain that the church of Apoc is the rot here.”

Koch jerked in his seat. “You plan to take on the church?”

“It’ll happen, but I won’t be the one who goes to them. They’ll come for me— of that, I’m almost certain. The Lily is a house of worship, and I’m healing people.”

“If they truly wish to fight you, you have little chance without aid,” Becker said.

“That’s probably true,” Doc agreed. “Did you have a proposal?”

Koch looked uncertain. “We thought about seeing if you’d join the clan fully and pick up the mantle of shaman, but if you’re going to draw the ire of the entire church…”

“It changes nothing,” Becker said firmly. “Even if he wasn’t considering it, you know as well as I do that if he continues to grow, the church will have no other option.”

Koch turned to her, his voice deepening into Dwarvish, “That’s not the point. Looking for a fight will always get you one.”

Becker replied just as firmly, “Not preparing for one means you are shortsighted and stupid.”

“Elders,” Doc said, speaking Dwarvish, “as I said, I won’t be the one starting it, though I’ll damned well be finishing it. It’ll be bad, difficult, and bloody, but the goddess knows that once I start, I don’t stop.”

All three dwarves in the room, Otto included, looked at Doc with wide eyes. “You speak our language?” Koch finally asked.

“Why wouldn’t I? I’m part dwarven,” Doc said.

“Because you aren’t from this world,” Becker said slowly.

“A fair point, but yes, I can understand and speak the human, dwarven, and elven languages,” Doc explained. “Gifts from Luck.”

“Ah... we apologize for speaking it as we did,” Koch said, looking a bit embarrassed.

“What happened to the last elder?” Doc asked. “Did he get removed?”

“He stepped down and denounced us for leading the clan into folly,” Becker said. “Only a small group of the clan is waiting to see what comes of this plan. The majority of the clan sides with us.”

“Who is taking up the third spot?” Doc asked. “From what I’ve heard, any elder council needs three.”

“We’ve asked Greta Redblade to fill the spot,” Becker said.

Doc’s forehead creased and he glanced at Otto, who was beaming. “Your wife? I never did ask your family name.”

“Redblade, which gave me no end of trouble when I started out as a barber,” Otto said. “She is going through the rite to sit with them today. She’ll join them fully tomorrow.”

“Congratulations,” Doc said. “That’s big news, from what I gather.”

“Indeed!” Otto grinned.

Becker cleared her throat. “Back to the matter at hand, please? Doc, what is your relationship with the dryad who lives in this area?”

“Mutual beneficence,” Doc said.

After a moment, Becker sighed, “Can you explain more?”

“She’s helping me with things she is uniquely suited for, and we have a deal that she will leave the people who are helping me alone. In return, I make sure that she’s cared for.”

“Cared for?” Koch asked.

Doc looked at Becker and shrugged. “I sleep with her and give her blood.”

“You’ve done this? And survived?” Koch asked incredulously.

“Why is that surprising, considering the rite I just passed?”

“Because even some of our strongest die when caught by a dryad,” Becker said tightly.

“They aren’t blessed by a god, nor do they have healing magic,” Doc replied.

“That’s true… it’s said shamans could sate them,” Becker nodded slowly. “It gives greater credence that you are indeed a shaman.”

“Would you marry into the clan to take up the mantle of shaman?” Koch asked bluntly.

“If I find someone agreeable who would willingly go with me when the time comes and coexist with my other lovers, I would consider it,” Doc replied.

“Do you not get along with Sonya Redblade?” Becker asked.

“I get along with her fine,” Doc said. “She and my lover are speaking to see if things will work. How does the clan feel about me having multiple partners?”

Koch looked away. “Some of us aren’t completely behind it.”

“Some hate the very thought,” Becker said, looking at the empty chair. “However, those of us who’ve delved into our history know that it wasn’t out of the ordinary before Apoc. For the shamans specifically, it was a common practice, as a shaman can pass their power onto their children.”

“And multiple wives makes that more likely,” Doc nodded. “Now, I have a question that’s going to be indelicate, so pardon me, please? How often do dwarves have kids?”

Becker snorted. “Not often enough. Like the elves, we do not have children every year like the humans, nor do we have litters every few years like the bestials. It’s one of the reasons humanity has been able to push us back. We don’t have the numbers to stand up to it.”

“The other clans, the ones who haven’t joined the church... they know of shamans and multiple wives?”

“Of course,” Becker said.

“And having a dwarf beside me would help them accept it more easily?” Doc continued.

“Yes,” Koch nodded.

“I can’t promise that I will marry, but will that stop me from being a shaman for the clan?”

Becker and Koch exchanged a look. “That’s a tough question,” Koch said slowly. “We’ve gone over our histories and can find no reference of a shaman who wasn’t a clan member to one clan or another, or even multiple clans.”

“That doesn’t mean it isn’t possible, but it will cause many issues that could be easily bypassed if you married into the clan,” Becker added.

“Otto? I gave you Sonya’s life debt and you were grateful for it,” Doc said, turning to the barber. “Do you have nothing to say?”

“I’d be honored if you accepted my daughter, Doc,” Otto said with all sincerity. “If I had known then what I do now, I would’ve rejected your offer and pressed you to marry her then.”

Doc exhaled. “Of course Sonya is already on board, but what about Greta?”

“She knew that Sonya wouldn’t stop chasing you. Neither of us expected her to be your guide during the rite.” Otto glared at Koch briefly. “She managed to convince one of the elders to let her be that guide and now, she’s tarnished for what she did. The only way for her reputation to be restored is to marry you, as you were the man she was alone with for over a day.”

“Well, she still has to convince Fiala,” Doc said. “If they come to an agreement, I’ve already told Sonya I will welcome her into my family.”

“Fiala?” Koch asked. “That is the bestial you were sleeping with at the Lily?”

Doc exhaled slowly and bit back his first reply. “Fiala is the one who accepted me first here, and she holds my heart. Yes, we were just sleeping together at first, but it’s gone far beyond that now. Is that a problem, Elder?”

Koch sat back slowly, as Doc’s eyes had gone hard. “I meant no disrespect. I just wish to understand how she has a say. You aren’t married to her, after all, so why should she be the one who says that Sonya can marry you?”

Doc nodded slowly. “That’s a fair point. I will address it once I leave here. Is there anything else I can do for you, Elders?”

“The clan would like to buy into Luck’s Holdings,” Becker said.

“I’ll have Ayla speak with you once we finish looking over options,” Doc said. “You and Lia are the ones who’ve asked, and we won’t let many people have percentages.”

“Very well,” Becker said. “We thank you for coming to speak with us. Once you have an answer on the marriage to Sonya Redblade, please inform us. We would like to announce you as shaman to the clan as soon after that as we can.”

Doc wondered at how eager she was, but just nodded. “Of course.”

“Have a good day, Doc, and I do apologize for some of the questions. We’re just doing our best to protect the clan,” Koch said.

“Which is your duty,” Doc replied. “I take no offense.”

“I’ll show him out,” Otto said. “Good day, Elders.”

As they left the elder’s hall, the guard gave Doc a nod. “Good day, sir.”

“Good day,” Doc replied out of reflex.

Otto’s eyebrows went up, but he didn’t say anything as they walked away. Once they were away from the guard, he spoke, “Never seen Harrid be friendly to anyone not revered by the elders. He’s like granite normally— have to chisel at him a long while to even make a dent.”

“Guess that means the elders like me,” Doc said.

“If there had been any doubt, it’s gone now,” Otto replied. “I meant what I said, though, Doc,” Otto said after a small pause. “Take care of her, for us, please?”

“I’ll always take care of the people I care for,” Doc said softly. “And I do care for her, now that I’ve had a chance to speak with her. Reminds me of myself, in a few ways.”

“Luck bless you,” Otto said as they left the clan hall behind.

Chapter Fifteen

On the way back to the Lily, Doc spotted the deputy trailing him and gave the man a small nod. He gave him a small head bob and shrugged in return.

Fucking Grange, Doc thought as he kept walking. Has them trailing me to try tripping me up? As if I’ll give him anything to work with.

He had a stop to make if he wanted to do what he’d planned after talking with the elders. It didn’t take him long to get the item he wanted, and he was soon back on the street. Time to get back to the Lily, but maybe I should see Sigmund first?

Doc paused outside of the milliner’s shop. Can’t heal him here... not anymore. Have to see if he’ll come back to the Lily. Shaking his head, Doc entered the shop.

Sigmund was helping an older woman with a bonnet, so Doc looked over the various hats on display while he helped her. It took a few minutes, but the lady was leaving with her new hat before Doc walked up to the counter.

“Morning, Sigmund. How’re you today?”

“Good, good, but not best,” Sigmund replied. “Come to help more?”

“I want to, but I can’t help you here anymore. The laws say I can only heal at the house of worship, which is the Lily. If Grange found out what’d been happening before... well, he wants to throw me in jail, at the very least.”

Sigmund nodded. “Lily for healing. Flowers to nurture the flesh and the soul.”

Doc snorted. “The Lily isn’t a house of the flesh anymore, Sigmund. It’s a gambling hall now. It’s dedicated to Lady Luck.”

“Sense, that is,” Sigmund smiled. “Close shop. Five minutes.”

“I’ll head back. See you there.”

“Yes, yes!”

Doc only made it a dozen paces away from the shop when the deputy fell into step beside him. “Morning, uhh…? Shit. I’m not sure which one you are.”

The deputy grinned, teeth briefly visible. “Fido. We’re identical, so it’s not surprising you can’t tell us apart. Grange can’t, either.”

“To what do I owe the pleasure, Fido?”

“Fairness. If you do something illegal, we are to bring you in. One of us will be nearby all the time unless something calls us away. I think you know that, but we decided it was only fair to tell you.”

“I appreciate it, but yeah, I figured. He’s got a hard-on for me and won’t rest until he finds a way to fuck me.”

Fido barked a laugh before hurrying away.

Doc wondered why, but he realized that the laugh drew a number of eyes his way. He gave the onlookers a level gaze back, getting most of them to look away.

Back at the Lily, Doc gave Fiala a wink and made his way over to the bar where Jasmine was working. “How’s the bartending life?”

Jasmine gave him a smile. “It’s less stressful than the tables.”

“Not ready to get behind one again?” Doc asked.

“I will for the tournaments, but only as the breaker,” Jasmine said softly. “I’ve had nightmares,” she added in a whisper.

“Traumatic events can do that,” Doc replied. “It’ll get better with time.”

Jasmine licked her lips, her forked tongue lingering on them a bit longer than necessary. She looked over at Fiala. “She’s lucky to have you.”

“I feel that we’re both lucky to have each other,” Doc said.

“Thank you again for saving me, Doc.”

“No thanks needed,” Doc gave her a smile. “I couldn’t not react to you being in danger.”

Jasmine’s cheeks heated and a smile touched her lips. “Will you play with Heather tonight?”

“I’m not sure, but Heather can play that song for you.”

“She can,” Jasmine admitted, looking down the bar when a patron called for her. “I like dancing with you in control, though.”

Doc’s eyebrow went up, but he didn’t get the chance to reply, as she went over to help the customer. Lady, is this your doing? Doc asked silently, though no reply came.

“Here I be,” Sigmund said, snapping Doc out of his thoughts. “Lots of tables to play, I see.”

“All of them poker,” Doc replied. “The game is something I brought with me. We use it for the tournaments, too.”

“Games of chance? Not as fun as hats.”

Chuckling, Doc motioned to the door into the back hall. “Through there, Sigmund. The private dining room can be used for this.”

“Door,” Sigmund grinned and went toward it.

Just before he could reach it, the door opened and Posy came into the main room. The little girl and the gnome stopped in their tracks, staring at each other. Sigmund took a step back, his head canted to the side in confusion.

Posy blinked and took a step forward. “Who are you?”

“Hats!” Sigmund said a little loudly and stepped back a few more paces.

Posy giggled. “Hats are nice.”

Sigmund stopped retreating. “Yes. Hats for all kinds.”

“But hats are for outside, not in,” Posy giggled as she bounced on her toes.

Sigmund looked troubled for a moment, but then his face lit up. “Hats for inside are hard to be sure, but wait here by the door!” Without further warning, he ran for the front door.

Doc bit back his laughter, but some still slipped out as he watched the gnome run. His run was even odder than his jig-step walk. Shaking his head, he looked down to find Posy frowning at him. “What?”

“He’s nice. Don’t laugh at him,” Posy chided him, looking upset.

“Hang on,” Doc said, “I wasn’t laughing at him. I find him fun because his love of hats is all-consuming. Right now, he’s rushing off to get you an inside hat.”

Posy’s frown faded. “He is? But I can’t accept gifts from strangers.”

“True, you shouldn’t do that, normally. Sigmund is the milliner in town,” Doc began to explain, but Posy looked blank at the word. “The hatter?” Seeing her suddenly understand, he continued, “He’s also a friend of mine. I’m helping him, like I helped your mom. It’s okay to accept his gift. This time, at least.”

Posy shifted side to side, looking uncertain. “I should still ask Momma.”

“I’ll go ask her,” Doc said. “If you leave and aren’t here when he comes back, he’ll be hurt.”

Posy bit her lip, then nodded. “Okay.”

Doc ruffled the hair on her head as he went past her. “I’ll be right back.”

~*~*~

Doc came back a minute later. “Daf said it’s okay, since I approve of him.”

Posy beamed. “Okay.”

Sigmund came running back into the Lily, drawing a lot of attention to the scene. In his hand was a small cap that he held carefully. “Hat!”

Posy blinked, her eyes darting to the crowd watching them, then back to Sigmund. “Is it a nice hat?”

“Perfect hat for you!” Sigmund beamed as he held it out to her.

Doc smiled at the small cap. The pink color was perfect for Posy, and the ribbons attached to it were colorful. “Did you know her size?”

Sigmund looked down. “No. I had to guess.”

Posy held out her hands. “Can I try it?”

“Yes,” Sigmund said, extending it tentatively. “Doc will help? Ear slit.”

“Of course,” Doc said. “Posy, there should be a spot for your ear.”

Posy took the hat and looked inside it. “Yes. Just one?”

Doc nodded and reached up for his hat, tipping it to one side. “It’ll sit like this.”

Posy looked at him and giggled. “That looks funny.”

“A bowler would, at that angle,” Doc said. “That hat will look good, though.”

Posy put the hat on, being careful as it went over her ear. Once it was fully on, she looked at Doc with a hopeful expression. “Does it look good?”

“It looks beautiful, like you,” Doc replied as he took off his hat and bowed to her.

Posy beamed. “Really?”

“Yes. Hat for you. Good,” Sigmund said, shuffling in place with a broad smile.

“Here,” Jasmine said, having come over, holding out a hand mirror to show Posy her reflection.

Posy looked into the mirror and tilted her head a few ways, her smile growing. “I love it.”

“Hats are best,” Sigmund said. “Gift for you…” Smile slipping, he looked up at Doc. “Okay?”

“I talked with her mom. It’s okay this time.”

Sigmund’s smile grew wide and he did a small dance in place. “Hat has a home!”

Posy giggled and bounced up and down on her toes. “Hat has a home. I will treasure it. Thank you.”

“Posy, did you have tasks to complete?” Lia asked as she came out of the back.

Posy’s eyes went wide and she ran for the stairs. “Yes. Sorry!”

“It’s okay, this once,” Lia said in her normal voice, knowing Posy would hear her. “Gentlemen, if you’re done spoiling her?”

Doc chuckled. “She deserves a little bit of spoiling, but yes, we’re done.”

Sigmund looked up at Lia, his face serious. Taking his hat off, he bowed at the waist to her. “Lilliana,” his voice was higher and musical as he spoke, “it is an honor to see you again.”

Lia’s smile was soft as she gave the gnome a small curtsy. “Sigmund. It’s been some time.” Her voice was also musical as she spoke, and Doc knew it was Elvish. “Is Doc assisting your madness?”

“He leeches the poisons from my blood. I won’t be as I was decades past, but I am growing stable again.”

“I am glad, old friend. Should I visit?”

Sigmund’s face lit up and he nodded. “Please. If you have any of the old wine left, please bring it and I will supply the cheese.”

“Soon,” Lia agreed. “Call me Lia, though, please. I set aside the name of Lilliana when the tribe fell, and I set aside my old ways.”

“Lia,” Sigmund grinned, his voice back to normal.

“We need to use the private dining room,” Doc said, “which I now realize was a flaw in my blueprints for the remodel.”

Lia smiled. “I asked for two modifications to the plan you had. It would give you a room and an office. You might not stay long, but it would be good to have, and it can be repurposed later, if needed.”

“Thank you,” Doc replied. “Okay, Sigmund, this way,” Doc said as he opened the door into the back.

~*~*~

Doc sat in the private dining room as dinner approached, wondering what Fiala had up her sleeve. Not that I can talk— I have my own surprise for her. Still, she asked me to wait in the back, which is a bit suspicious.

The door opening got Doc’s full attention. Fiala poked her head in and gave him a smile before she entered the room. She was wearing a blue dress that brought her blue eyes out more. Right behind her came Sonya, wearing a maroon dress that emphasized her brown eyes.

“Ladies,” Doc smiled as he rose to his feet, “you both look lovely.”

“I had this made when we went shopping. Do you really like it?” Fiala asked, coming to a stop a few feet away.

The dress wasn’t a dress, now that Doc got a good look at it. It was a short-sleeved button top and skirt combo that blended together perfectly. “It brings out the color of your eyes,” Doc said. “I like it.”

“Thank you,” Fiala said, giving him a small curtsy.

Doc looked at Sonya, who was watching them with a hopeful expression. “Yours is beautiful, as well, Sonya. I would never have guessed that maroon would bring out your lovely chocolate eyes so vividly.”

Sonya’s smile blossomed, and she gave him a small curtsy in return. “Thank you, Doc. I haven’t had a chance to wear it before tonight.”

“When Sonya and I talked the other day, I thought it would be good for us to have dinner together,” Fiala said. “I wanted to make sure she understood what she’s getting into.”

“That’s fine, though I’m pretty sure I already told her that during the rite,” Doc said.

“You did, but Fiala wants to make sure I understand.”

“Okay,” Doc replied, going over to seat both women. “We can save the talk for after dinner. No reason to let the food grow cold.”

“As you wish, Doc,” Fiala said.

Posy served the three of them, giving Sonya curious glances as she did. The food was thick slabs of steak, baked potatoes, and steamed vegetables. All three of them cleaned their plates and sighed happily. Posy collected the dishes and made sure they were topped off for wine before she left, giving one last, long look at Sonya.

“She looked intent,” Sonya said.

“Posy sees Doc as a surrogate father,” Fiala said.

“She does?” Doc asked.

“I’ve talked with her and Daf,” Fiala smiled. “She does, and it’s no surprise as to why.”

“She’s a cute child,” Sonya said. “The hat is adorable on her.”

“Sigmund gave it to her today,” Doc grinned.

“The milliner?” Sonya asked.

“I’ve been helping him,” Doc said. “The mercury is what kills most hatters.”

“Ah yes, your healing. That explains it.”

“To bring the conversation to topic,” Fiala said, “Sonya, Doc will be fighting people— and even the church— here and after we leave here. Danger and hardships will follow us every step of the way.”

“I know,” Sonya said. “He’d be best served to have those who will support him no matter what beside him. I can help ease the way with any dwarf clans he needs to interact with.”

Fiala conceded the point. “That’s good, but are you willing to leave behind ev—?”

“Yes,” Sonya said, cutting her off. “I was dead, Fiala. I would’ve died if not for Doc. His magic... it entered me, healed me, soothed me. I’ve never felt more whole than in that moment. If it comes to it, I would lay down my life for him.”

Fiala blinked slowly, her tail thrashing side to side. “You know of Rosa?”

“The dryad? Yes. I am fine with them coupling as he needs or wishes,” Sonya said. “You, Rosa, or any other he deems worthy of his attention— it’s fine with me. I only hope to have him give me some, a small portion even, of that same attention.”

“He might have a harem into the hundreds,” Fiala said flatly. “He might never sleep with us again.”

Sonya met Fiala’s eyes and nodded. “That’ll hurt, but if that’s what he needs, I will not stop him.”

“Why?”

“Doc and my family might feel like my blood debt was given, but I do not. If any of the clan heard me say this, I would be banished, but I will speak my truth: my life is his. I don’t want it back. I want only to repay him by being beside him and helping as he requires of me. He can sleep with whomever he wishes and I will accept it. I might cry into my pillow, but I will accept it.”

Doc felt a little out of place at the table as they spoke about him.

Fiala was clearly not happy, but Sonya didn’t stop talking, “Fiala, I know what my place will be. Doc has made it clear that you are the one who will be at his side. I begrudge you that, but I will never challenge you for your place. He wants those with him to live in harmony, and I will do everything I can to achieve that desire. You’ll be his first wife, the one who controls the home, and the rest of us will have to bow our heads to you.”

Fiala’s tail stilled and she blinked slowly. “You will? Without a fight?”

“Doc doesn’t want us to fight,” Sonya said, her eyes flickering to him before going back to Fiala. “I wish only to help him, ease his troubles, and maybe gain some of his affection.”

“But I’m not his first wife,” Fiala said tightly.

“We can fix that,” Doc said, breaking into the conversation. Both women turned to look at him, and Doc gave Fiala a knowing smile. Pulling the box from his jacket, he placed it in front of him. “I stopped on the way back today and picked this up. Not sure what marriage means in this world, but for mine, we gave rings to the person we wanted to marry.” Opening the box, he pulled out a ring. The diamond on it was bright in the lamplight, and the gold band glittered. “Fiala Fulton, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

Fiala’s eyes were wide as she stared at him, her tail still. “Am I dreaming?”

Doc smiled softly as he took her hand in his and held the ring an inch from her ring finger. “No, dear, this is not a dream. Will you?”

“Yes...” The word was a whisper as she stared at the ring.

Doc slid it smoothly onto her finger, glad it wasn’t too tight or loose. “I guess we need to see a preacher or sign some papers to make it official, but you’ve made me the happiest man in the world.”

Fiala’s hand left his, shaking as she brought it closer to her eyes. With a small hiccupping cry, she launched herself at him.

Doc grabbed her and the two of them went over backward, chair and all. Fiala was kissing him fiercely the entire time.

There was sadness in Sonya’s eyes as she watched them, but her sadness dimmed and a stubborn resolve filled them as she sat in her seat and waited for them to remember her.

Chapter Sixteen

Doc stroked Fiala’s hair as they lay together in bed. Fiala murmured and snuggled closer to him, still asleep. Smile widening slightly, Doc kissed the tip of her ear.

“No... Sleep...” Fiala murmured, trying to snuggle closer still but not having any luck, as she was already mostly draped over Doc.

“But if you don’t wake up, we can’t go to the courthouse,” Doc whispered to her.

Brow furrowing, Fiala grumbled as his words slowly penetrated the haze of sleep. “Courthouse? Why?”

“Something about the ring on your finger and getting married.”

Fiala’s eyes snapped open, her blue eyes meeting his. “Oh! Yes.” The second word was happy as she kissed his chest. “Don’t want to delay that.”

“Then you should—”

The knock on the door and Posy announcing that she had brought their water cut him off.

“Get up and get ready,” Doc chuckled. Raising his voice, he called back to Posy, “Thank you, Posy.”

“What to wear?” Fiala asked idly as she got out of bed, the blanket left on Doc.

Doc watched her with an amused expression when she opened the door and got the pitcher of hot water.

“Morning, Posy,” Fiala said absently, giving the child a smile before closing the door.

“Fiala, I can clean up first, if you’d like, so you can take your time getting ready,” Doc offered, as Fiala seemed to be moving on autopilot.

“Hmm? Oh, yes, please.”

Doc shook his head and gave himself a quick rinse, dressing in his best clothes. He knew he should see about acquiring more clothing soon, but wasn’t sure he wanted to trust the tailor in town. Putting the thought aside, he made his way downstairs.

“Morning, Doc,” Jasmine greeted him with a grin. “Did you wear her out again? Should’ve taken it easy, knowing what you have to do today.”

“I didn’t get much choice in that matter,” Doc said wryly.

“I expect you had a choice, but chose the easier path,” Lia said, coming out the door behind the bar. “You need two witnesses for the signing. Who are you taking?”

Doc’s lips pursed, as he hadn’t thought about needing witnesses. “Maybe you and Daf?”

“Good options,” Lia nodded. “Lotus wants to go, as well, and I adjusted the schedule so she could. Truth be told, all my girls wanted to go, but someone has to stay and run the place.”

“Need more, too,” Doc added.

“I’ve been extending offers to some people I know,” Lia said. “I have to trust them, after all.”

“Fair,” Doc said, holding up his hands. “I will never tell you how to run this place. I’m a mostly silent partner.”

Lia laughed. “Silent? That’ll never happen.”

Doc snorted and shrugged. “I’m fine with any or all of the ladies coming to see us sign papers. We’ll have to arrange a party in the near future, as well.”

“Doc, I need to speak with you,” Ayla said, coming into the Lily.

“Sure, come on back,” Doc said, hitching a thumb at the door into the back hall.

Ayla followed Doc into the private dining room, glancing at Lia when she sat down with them. “Doc, you’re getting married?”

“Going to sign the papers this morning,” Doc grinned.

“What about a prenuptial contract?”

“What about it?” Doc asked.

“Don’t you want one? To protect you and the business?”

“Are you implying I shouldn’t trust Fiala?” Doc asked, his voice growing cold.

“What? No! Because it’s the best business move to make when marrying,” Ayla said, looking affronted. “It isn’t about trust or anything else— it’s about protecting the business. They can even be set up to protect her rights if you die.”

Doc leaned back, the coldness thawing some. “Explain, please?”

“You want to grow Luck’s Holdings, and you have me drawing up documents for partners. That can lead to a lot of fighting if you die. With the right prenup, there will be no standing for anyone who tries to wrest control of the company from Fiala.”

“Or your other wives,” Lia added.

“Other wives?” Ayla asked, shock crossing her face.

“Doc is going to have himself an old-fashioned harem,” Lia grinned. “At least with Fiala and Sonya. Rosa, too, but the law won’t recognize her as a legitimate wife.”

“Why?” Doc asked Lia.

“Dryads are dangerous and can only enter a town or city if they are kept as pets by someone with power. Even then, there’s a lot of legal paperwork that has to be done for that to be allowed.”

“A lot of paperwork,” Ayla nodded, “and the cost to apply for such an allowance is costly, too.”

“Table it for now, but start looking into it, Ayla?”

Ayla paused for a long moment, then nodded. “Yes, sir.”

“The prenup,” Doc sighed. “Can you have one done in an hour?”

Ayla gave him a tired smile, and Doc saw the dark lines under her hazel eyes. “I was working on it all night.” She pushed a small stack of papers to him. “Read it and see if you need anything changed.”

Posy entered the room and served them coffee. She was wearing a bright yellow dress, and had changed out the ribbons on her hat to match. Doc gave her a thank you and a smile when she served him.

He pushed the paperwork back to Ayla when he finished. “I’m sorry that I questioned your intent, Ayla. You need it to reflect wives, not wife, though.”

Ayla nodded, having been writing the entire time he was reading. “I’m already working on it. I figured you needed it when you didn’t correct Lia. Are you leaving the total number of wives open currently?”

“I am sure of two,” Doc replied. “It’d be three if Rosa could marry. I’m not closing the door on more, though. They’ll need to be able to get along with my other wives, and honestly, they’ll need to bring something to the table to be given a chance.”

Ayla’s hand had slowed, but when he finished talking, she nodded and she picked up speed again. “I’ll make sure the language reflects that eventuality. You will hold— at the worst— sixty percent of the business, which will be split amongst your wives at your passing. At the moment, it’s a hundred percent, but as you add in partners, you can sell them percentages, though never exceeding forty percent in total.”

“Sounds like a deal,” Doc nodded. “How’re they going to be paid?”

“Yearly dividend, based on net earnings,” Ayla replied, “which means I will be stopping you from wild expenditures, and I need to speak with Rangvald about expenses for the mine.”

Doc chuckled. “This is why I hired you, Ayla. I trust you to take care of things. I’ll be getting a monthly salary, right?”

“Yes,” Ayla replied. “I have it set at a salary for an owner of a major company. Generous, but not nearly as lavish as you had when the mine brought the first load in.”

“Okay. Let me know what I have to work with when the next load comes in,” Doc frowned. “Should be today.”

“We have the weekly tournament starting as normal today, too,” Lia nodded. “We might need to delay your trip to the courthouse until after, depending on when Fiala finishes getting ready.”

The door opened and Doc looked up, expecting Fiala, but saw Daf and Posy standing there with food, instead.

Daf, seeing his expression, laughed as she brought the plates in. “I’m not your blushing bride, Doc. Sorry.”

“I’m happy to see you, too,” Doc coughed.

“Or the food, at least,” Daf corrected him gently. “I understand. I know how my husband was when we were to sign the papers. I hope you enjoy it. I have Fiala’s breakfast on standby for when she’s ready.”

“Maybe I should go check on her,” Doc said.

“No!” Daf said firmly before looking down. “Sorry. I mean, please don’t do that. Lotus was going up to help her get ready, and you should wait for her to be ready. It’s tradition.”

Doc held up his hands in surrender. “I took no offense, Daf. Thank you for explaining it to me, and for the food.”

“Momma said I can be a flower girl. Can I?”

Doc gave Posy a soft smile. “If we can get some flowers in time, yes.”

“After breakfast, I’ll have one of the girls go with Posy to get flowers,” Lia said.

Ayla didn’t add anything— she was focused on her task— but she did break up writing with bites of food.

~*~*~

Doc was starting to get worried. Midday was fast approaching, but Fiala still hadn’t come downstairs. Is she having second thoughts? I didn’t think she would, not with the way she attacked me last night...

“You’re overthinking, aren’t you?” Ayla asked as she sipped at more coffee.

“Huh?”

“Your forehead was all wrinkled, and you looked vaguely panicked. Worried she changed her mind?”

“Yeah,” Doc admitted.

“She’d be a fool if she did,” Ayla said. “You’re one of a kind, Doc.”

“I’m not that special... well, besides being blessed by a goddess.”

“No. I’m betting you were just like this before,” Ayla said. “Kind, caring, helpful... haven’t known many who are, let alone a human to someone who isn’t human. I mean, you aren’t unique, but rare? Certainly.”

Doc shifted in his seat and exhaled. Ayla had gone out of her way twice to help him, and her words dug into him. “About that...” Doc said awkwardly. “I’ve already told Fiala, Lia, Sonya, her parents, and the dwarven elders. It’s not right to keep it from you.”

Ayla put her cup down, giving him a curious look. “Must be big if you’re this nervous about it.”

“I look human... I know I do. That was by design. I’m not human, though— I’m half-elven and half-dwarven.”

Ayla blinked at him, waiting for the punchline, but when he didn’t add anything, she sat back slowly, clearly thinking. After a long moment of silence, she nodded. “Which is why you’re okay with me and the others?”

“No, actually, it isn’t because of that at all.” Doc paused before he began to explain to her exactly how he came to be in the world.

Ayla didn’t interrupt, just listening intently the whole time. When he finished, Ayla was searching his face for something. Doc sat there, waiting for her to say anything.

“If anyone else tried to tell me that, I would call them insane,” Ayla said. “You’ve already shown me reason to believe, but this… coming from another world…? It’s a bigger pill to swallow.”

“You’re someone who deserves to know,” Doc said. “I need to trust the people who’re going to be with me for the long haul. Does this change anything between us?”

Ayla looked at the table, nodding. “Yes, Doc, it does.” Brushing her hair back behind her ear, a smile touched her lips. “You saved me from Goodman, gave me your trust to do what I was trained to do, never once questioned me in my judgments of the money, and now, you tell me this... It does change things.” She looked up at him. “It changed for the better. I was committed to doing my best for you before, but now, I’ll try to do more.”

Doc could feel the resolve in her tone, and he smiled. “Thank Luck for that. I would’ve panicked if you wanted out, instead.”

Ayla laughed, her cheeks turning a light pink. “No. I doubt I’ll want that, even in the future.”

“Might want to make sure of that,” Doc grinned. “We should solidify this: ‘Chief Financial Officer’ should be your title for Luck’s Holdings.”

Ayla’s eyes widened. “You want to establish a board?”

“Seems like the best idea,” Doc said. “Draw up what you can, and let’s hash it out in a day or two?”

“Yes,” Ayla said, standing up and gathering her papers. “I’ll go get started.”

“No, wait!” Doc said quickly, catching her hands with his. “Get some rest, first? You haven’t slept.”

Ayla blinked, her eyes going to their hands and her cheeks heating. “Um... right... yeah! I can’t sleep, either. Wedding first, then sleep, and then work.”

“That’s fine,” Doc said, giving her hands a light squeeze before letting them go. “We would like you there.”

The door to the room opened, revealing Fiala. She was dressed in an off-white dress with lace across the top, coming down to just above her ankles. “Sorry, for the wait… husband.”

Doc met her eyes and smiled. “No need for sorry. Seeing you in that, ready to marry me, is worth any wait.”

Fiala smiled, and her single long tooth became visible. “I’m ready.”

Chapter Seventeen

A small procession formed up as Doc and Fiala left the back hallway. Lotus, Daf, Posy, and Ayla trailed them. The moment the door opened to the main room, the sound of a piano started up.

Doc wore a large smile as the Wedding March suddenly filled the room. Heather gave him a wink when the bridal party passed her. While they walked, Jasmine and Lia joined them as they headed for the door.

“What the hell is all the fuss about?” one of the poker players asked loudly enough to cut over the music. “So some idiot’s dippin’ his wick in a pussy and gonna marry her? Big deal.”

One of the deputies was suddenly behind the man, a deep, rumbling growl coming from him as he spoke, “Sir, the owners have told us that if anyone acts out, we’re to toss them from the tournament. You’ll have your entry fee returned, but will be banned from all further tournaments. Now, would you care to repeat that?”

The man sneered and threw his cards to the dealer. “No, you damned mutt. No, I wouldn’t.”

Fiala’s smile was strained. Doc patted her hand, which was linked through his arm, with his. “Ignore the idiots, Fiala. Doesn’t matter what they think. All that matters is that today, we’re happy.”

Fiala’s smile eased into a happy one again. “You’re right.”

Lia had slowed her pace to fall behind the others. Turning to the room, her eyes were cold and locked onto the rude player. “Banned. Cassia, refund him, and Spot, toss him. If anyone ever disrespects my staff in such a manner again, the least you will get is banned.” She gave the room another long look before she walked out of the Lily.

Ayla glanced at Lia as she caught up. “Are you going to pick them up again?”

“That remains to be seen,” Lia said simply, but her words stopped any further conversation.

Fiala’s ears twitched, having picked up the muted conversation at the back of the procession. Her smile dimmed again for a moment before Doc’s hand squeezed hers lightly. “I’m happy, Doc. This is a moment I’d never thought I’d have. It’s just stray thoughts. I’m fine.”

“Alright.”

Walking down the street, Doc smiled when several other people joined in the procession. Henrick, Sigmund, Otto, Greta, Sonya, and a whole slew of dwarves— including the two elders— were all there by the time they reached the courthouse.

Grange stood on the courthouse steps, watching the throng with a stony face. “Holyday, what’s this?”

“A wedding, Sheriff,” Doc replied civilly. “Miss Fulton and I are here to wed. Is that a problem?”

Grange spotted Lia and straightened up. “Not at all. I was notified of a large group heading for the courthouse and had to make sure it wasn’t anything harmful to the town.”

“The judge should be waiting for them,” Lia said.

“Of course,” Grange replied. “Go on in, then.”

“Thank you,” Fiala smiled.

“Miss,” Grange said, touching the brim of his hat.

The long train of people followed the couple inside, with Grange watching them all with barely concealed distaste. When they had all gone inside, he stalked down the street. His steps had purpose, as he had someone to speak with.

When they passed Elta and Sophia, both of the women stepped out, putting up the closed signs on their doors. Doc gave them a nod and smile, getting smiles back in return.

Approaching the double doors he hadn’t once passed through even with all the times he’d been in the building, Doc felt a sense of gravity as they drew closer. Pushing them open, the room looked like he expected it should.

The far right side of the room had a jury box. The judge’s bench was directly across from the doors, and the bald man seated behind it watched them with dispassionate eyes. To the judge’s left was the witness box, while two tables sat directly across from him, and then the small fence with a swing gate that separated the crowd from the rest of the room.

Doc and Fiala walked to stand before the judge, the others mostly stopping in the viewing section. The only ones who entered the courtroom proper besides the couple were Elta, Sophia, Sonya, and Lia.

“You have the paperwork?” the judge asked.

“I have it here,” Elta said, passing it to the judge.

He took a moment reading it over. Nodding as he finished, he looked at Doc and Fiala. “Mr. Holyday, Miss Fulton, the paperwork is in order. It just needs your signatures. Please approach the bench and sign.”

Moving together, they stopped just in front of the judge’s bench. Taking the offered pen from him, Doc signed his name on both sets of paperwork. He held the pen out to Fiala, realizing he hadn’t told her about the prenup, and felt a spike of anxiety.

Fiala took the pen and signed both documents, though she hesitated for a few seconds on the prenup. When she finished, she passed the pen back to the judge, her smile still in place.

“Very well. I have seen you both sign. I need your witnesses to step forward and sign.”

Lia and Sonya stepped forward and signed the marriage paperwork. The judge had a single eyebrow lifted as he stared at Lia while she signed. Looking down at her signature, his lips pursed.

“Lilliana Treeheart and Sonya Redblade are hereby recognized as the witnesses. Clerk, the paperwork can be sealed and recorded.”

“Yes, sir,” Elta said, taking the papers from him.

Clearing his throat, the judge looked over the room. “It isn’t often I preside over a marriage, and rarer still to have even a handful of people show up. It’s even more surprising to see such an eclectic group. I wonder what could bring so many diverse people together, but that isn’t why we’re here.”

Doc wondered if the judge was neutral and not associated with Suez and Goodman, since he didn’t seem to know him.

“Ladies, gentlemen, bestials, elves, and dwarves,” the judge said in a practiced, but not totally sincere, pleasant voice, “it is our pleasure to hold a wedding today to bring Doc Holyday and Fiala Fulton together. Some people go their entire lives without finding someone to love, and yet others find it in the most unusual of places. Holyday, do you take Fulton to be your wife, in the eyes of the community and under the rule of law?”

“I do.”

“Fulton, do you take Holyday to be your husband, in the eyes of the community and under the rule of law?”

“I do.”

“Then I, Judge Raspia Bero, do hereby pronounce you married. You may kiss the bride, sir.”

Doc smiled widely as he took Fiala into his arms, dipped her, and kissed her soundly.

The judge looked just as emotionless as he had the entire time while everyone else in the courtroom showered the newlyweds with cheers, whistles, and applause. After nearly a minute, the crowd began to laugh at the couple’s prolonged kiss.

Judge Bero coughed, clearly done with the moment.

Doc stood Fiala back on her feet and gave the judge a bow of his head. “Thank you, your honor.”

“You’re welcome. Now if you don’t mind, I do have other business to see to.”

“We understand, your honor,” Fiala said, a touch breathless.

As the pair began to walk to the crowd, Posy was standing in front of the swing gate, a basket on one arm. With a bright smile, she began to toss small pieces of flower petals as she led the couple out of the room.

Sophia and Elta had to leave the procession when they reached their offices, but both of them continued to watch until the group was entirely out of the courthouse. Elta went to seal the documents right away, but Sophia stayed in the hall a moment longer, wearing a wistful smile.

Stepping outside, Doc paused with Fiala on the courthouse steps. “Thank you all for coming to witness our big day,” he addressed the crowd. “We’re truly blessed to have so many friends. I’d like to have had the time to arrange a proper party, but—”

“We have you covered,” Greta said with a knowing grin. “We were told last night, and the clan always helps those it’s indebted to. The clan hall is ready, and most of the clan is already there, waiting.”

Fiala looked at Sonya, who gave her a small nod. “We’d be honored,” Fiala said before Doc could respond. “We’d never have dreamed that the famed hospitality of the dwarves would accompany this day. Thank you.”

Doc cleared his throat, having been caught off guard. “As my wife says, we thank you. We’d hate to impose.”

“Nonsense,” Becker replied. “I just wished we’d have had a little more time to show you exactly how famed our hospitality is, but we did everything we could to make sure today is a truly memorable day for you both.”

“I’ll send along a small token,” Lia said. “Unfortunately, I must return to the tournament that’s going on. I do wish you both a good day...” She paused briefly, a smirk touching her lips. “And a night to last you all your days.”

Doc laughed along with the crowd, while Fiala blushed and giggled, her eyes twinkling. “I understand Lia, and I’m sure the day and night will both be memorable for many long years to come. Elders, we’ll follow you.”

“You are all welcome into the clan hall for this event,” Becker said. “Please, be our guests and know that any friends of Doc Holyday are friends of ours.”

The crowd followed the dwarven elders. Many eyes watched the strange procession as they walked through town— most were curious, a few looked upon them with derision, and a handful stared with hostility.

One man spat on the ground as they passed. “Degenerates in the eyes of Apoc. It just confirms what I need to do— the preacher must be told.”

Chapter Eighteen

Arriving at the clan hall, Doc’s eyebrows rose when he saw the number of lights festooning the building’s exterior. “Wow, that’s going to be bright as hell later.”

“It lights up the town when we have reason to celebrate,” Sonya said from right behind him and Fiala. “It’s been a while since there was a reason.”

“It’s beautiful,” Fiala said. “I can’t wait to see it at night.”

“You’ll have ample opportunity,” Sonya said. “It’s barely past midday, but our parties tend to run long. Just remember to pace your drinking, Fiala. I’m not sure Doc will get much of a chance in that regard, though.”

“Why’s that?” Doc asked.

“Grooms are supposed to finish a mug from anyone who brings it to them,” Sonya laughed, “which means that most end up rather drunk by the end of the night.”

Doc snorted. “I bet none of them could cleanse their own blood.”

“A bit of a cheat, but you are correct,” Sonya grinned. “The trouble for Fiala will be the dancing.”

“I dance very well,” Fiala said, not understanding.

“No, the wedding dances,” Sonya grinned, moving to walk beside them for a moment. “I’m tall for a female dwarf— about even to most men. Where is my head?”

Doc looked over and laughed. “I see.”

“I’ll make sure they stay out,” Fiala sniffed. “Doc is the only man who gets to put his face in my tits now.”

Sonya’s lips turned up at the corners. “Good.”

“Doc,” Becker said, moving closer to them, “we set it up to be as close to a normal dwarven wedding celebration as possible. That was the best we could do with the limited warning.”

“I didn’t expect it at all, so it’s very welcome, Elder. We thank you for this.”

“We truly do,” Fiala added. “I’d never expected I’d have a wedding feast at all, much less one on this scale.”

“You’ve married a unique man,” Becker said. “I suggest you get used to the unexpected.”

“Yes,” Fiala agreed.

“Can’t even argue that,” Doc said.

They were led into the clan hall and taken to a room Doc hadn’t seen before— a vast hall, with tables taking up half the room, and a roped-off stage on the other side. A single table stood apart from the others, and instead of being round, it was rectangular.

“Who would you like to sit with you at the head table?” Becker asked.

Doc counted the number of seats and did some quick math in his head. “Fiala, choose which four you want to sit on your side,” he told her.

“Oh, um...” Fiala looked at the people who’d followed them closely. “Sonya, Lotus, Daf, and of course, Posy.”

“Mine’s a bit tougher,” Doc said.

“We’ll sit apart,” Becker said. “This way, the clan knows that there is still separation between us.”

“Makes it a little easier,” Doc said. “Jasmine, Henrick, Sigmund, and… can’t ask a man to be apart from his wife for a moment like this.”

“He’d love to sit with you,” Greta said firmly. “I’ll be with the other elders, after all.”

Otto glanced at his wife before clearing his throat. “The choice is yours, of course, Doc. I would be honored to sit beside you.”

“Very well. Otto, as he was the one who was instrumental in the clan and I really coming together.”

“Of course,” Becker nodded. “Once everyone is seated, the feast will begin. Um... I am a little concerned, as we will not have the usual progression of speeches.”

“No father of the bride, best man, or maid of honor,” Doc nodded. “That does make it different. We have the groom and bride, at least.”

“Bride and maid of honor speeches?” Becker asked. “Is that from…?”

“Yeah. Relatively new there, too, but it’s something that works well.”

“Lotus can do the maid of honor speech,” Fiala said.

“It might be better if Sonya did,” Lotus gently corrected her friend, “considering everything?”

Fiala nodded. “That’s a good point.”

“No. Lotus has been your friend longer,” Sonya declined. “Thank you both for thinking of me, but I wouldn’t trod on your friendship.”

Both Fiala and Lotus gave her a smile, and Lotus said, “Very well. I will do it.”

“It’ll be odd, but Otto, if you don’t mind, can you do the best man speech?” Doc asked.

“Not a lot of history to work with, but yes,” Otto said. “I can fill that role.”

“And Becker,” Doc grinned, “considering the feast, perhaps you and the other elders can take the father’s speech?”

Greta snorted, Koch looked a little uneasy, and Becker nodded. “We will. At least I will, since we’re the ones putting on this feast for our ally.”

“Thank you. Do you do yours before or after the food?” Doc asked.

“We wait until after the food, but before the dances,” Becker replied.

“Okay. Thank you. I’ll be ready by then.”

The party moved to the head of the table. Lotus leaned over to speak with Doc as soon as they sat. “What does the maid of honor speech entail?”

“Like the best man’s, except you flip things,” Doc said. “You compliment me, and try not to roast me too much. A story or compliments about Fiala, then the toast.”

“Glad there’s food first,” Lotus said. “I might have something in order by then.”

“And me?” Fiala asked.

“Thank the guests first. You follow with your family next, normally. Maybe even a few kind words for your parents, who aren’t here. Then, you give thanks to the bridesmaids, which is different in that we didn’t really have them… ah, you can thank Posy for being the flower girl. The last part before the toast itself is a romantic or funny story about me.”

Fiala’s lips tweaked up, and she looked at the crowd as they all finished taking their seats. “Maybe not the most memorable story.”

“Yeah...” Doc coughed.

“Oh,” Lotus grinned. “I’ll pick something different.”

~*~*~

The food, when it was brought out, was a bigger feast than Doc had envisioned: salad, breads, cheeses, a variety of different meats, and a heaping helping of different vegetables.

To accompany the food, there was a wide selection of drinks. They had tea or juice, which Posy had since she was a child and not dwarven. She glanced at the few dwarven children in attendance with a hint of jealousy, as they had wine. Then came the dozens of ales that the dwarves had to choose from, from lighter to a deep, dark ale that almost needed a spoon to drink. They also had hard drinks; scotch, whiskey, rum, and something called “Forge Fire.”

Doc stuck with a darker ale, but not the darkest, while he enjoyed the feast. Fiala had wine and went with the fish, which had Doc grinning internally. The meal lasted for nearly an hour before, finally, the majority of the room was sated.

Becker got to her feet and held up a hand. The seconds ticked by as the crowd fell nearly silent for her. “Thank you. This is a wedding and, as such, there are a number of speeches to hear. I’ve been asked to step into the role of father of the bride for this moment, as the bride’s father couldn’t be here. There will also be a couple of twists, asked for by Holyday.”

The crowd murmured some, and Becker gave them a moment before holding up her hand again. “I want to thank you all for coming to the feast to celebrate the union of Doc Holyday and Fiala Fulton, now Fiala Holyday. I wish to toast those who couldn’t be here today, namely the missing parents of the newlyweds, and those who had business that they couldn’t get away from.”

There was a pause as everyone drank to the toast.

“The father of the bride would normally tell a story about his little girl here, but alas, I don’t know the bride well enough to manage this. I can, however, speak of the groom, a man who has come into the clan and helped us a great deal. Doc, any woman who marries you is going to be well cared for, and lucky. I can see the obvious love you two have for each other and I hope it shines for all time. To the new couple, and to the many long years of love they have ahead of them.”

Everyone drank, and many happy conversations sprung up briefly.

Doc gave everyone a moment before he stood. The conversation fell off quickly as many of the assembled got their first good look at Doc. “Thank you, Elder. Both of us hope that your toast is prophetic. I’m stunned and honored to see all of you here. We’re flattered to have so many attending a very impromptu wedding.”

Doc let the murmurs grow before speaking loudly enough to go over them, “As for my darling bride... well, words can be said for hours and fail to do her the justice I think she deserves. I haven’t known her as long as many expect a new couple to know each other, but time is just the passage of days. When you meet someone you truly love, there is no way to deny it.”

The crowd cheered his speech and threw some applause in.

“Many of you are likely wondering about the guests beside us. Each has been either a friend of the bride for many years, or is one we both hope to have as a friend for even more years. A toast to the lovely ladies who have been there to help Fiala: Daf, Lotus, and of course, Posy. Thank you, ladies.”

Everyone raised their glasses and drank. There were a few whistles mixed with the hubbub of the toast. Posy was red, but smiling as she took a sip of her juice. Fiala was blushing when she got to her feet, her tail lashing back and forth and showing her anxiety. The crowd quieted down, as everyone wanted to hear her.

“Thank you,” Fiala said, her voice thick with emotion. “My father was a miner and my mother a maid, so I never imagined that I’d have a crowd like this at my wedding party. I’m honored to have you all here. I’d like to think my parents would be proud of me if they were still alive, and I try to make them proud of me.”

Fiala had to pause to wipe at the tears that had escaped. Doc gave her a handkerchief to do so, and the crowd murmured into the silence of her pause. The majority felt some empathy with her words.

“Sorry,” Fiala sniffled. “I do need to thank Lotus, my dearest and oldest friend, for everything she’s done to help me; Daf, who made sure I was always well-fed and cared for; Sonya, who is fast becoming a dear friend; and not least in any way, Posy, who is the sweetest soul I know and always finds a way to make me smile.”

All four beamed and gave her smiles as Fiala wiped more tears away.

“As for my husband,” Fiala looked down at Doc. She just stared at him for a long while. “Doc came into my life like a refreshing wind. He blew aside my old self and showed me what I could be if I wanted it. He was the first man to treat me like a lady— a real lady— and it broke me down and remade me. My first goal is to make his life even a tenth as good as he has made mine. No matter what storms might blow in, I know that, by sheltering in his arms, I will be safe. When that storm passes, I’ll be there to help him pick up and rebuild. Thank you, Doc, for showing me that I was so much more than I had thought of myself.”

Doc cleared his throat and wiped a few tears away, his smile wide as he looked up at her. When she bent to kiss him, he accepted it, but made sure she didn’t go too far. A happy murmur went through the crowd, and several of the other couples leaned into each other as they watched the newlyweds, remembering their own weddings.

Once Fiala sat down, Lotus stood up, licking her lips nervously. “Fiala, you’ll always be a dear friend to me,” she began. “One might ask how our friendship came to be,” Lotus continued, looking like she had relaxed some. “It was when Fiala first… came into employment at the same establishment as myself.” She faltered, clearly wanting to distance the story from the Lily. “She was new and had no idea what to do. So, I— mostly new myself, but full of confidence— took her under my wing.” She let out a small giggle. “And, as one would expect, our first task together ended up a complete disaster. Fiala never blamed me, even though it was my fault. No, she merely looked at me after it was over and asked if we could try it again until we got it right.”

Fiala was bright red, clearly recalling whatever the story was. Seeing her red, the crowd was laughing along, even though they didn’t have context.

“We’ve been fast friends ever since, and yes, we did learn from our past mistakes. Fiala, seeing you move on makes me proud of you, even as I wonder if I’ll ever be as lucky as you are. To the couple: may your love always grow and may no shadow darken your light.”

Loud cheers echoed throughout the room as everyone raised glasses and drank to the toast.

That left Otto as the last to speak, and the room quieted as he waited for them. “Didn’t expect to be giving a speech, but I was asked, and I owe Doc a large debt. Fiala, you hooked a good man, and no one here can deny the love you have for each other. I think you’ll do well as a couple. I’d normally tell an anecdote of the groom, but I have few stories of him. There is one I can tell, as I know no one here will spread it beyond the walls.”

The crowd murmured and leaned forward, clearly ready to hear what was so secret.

“My darling daughter, Sonya, was dying not long ago… from an infection that was poisoning her. Doc had been into my shop only once before, but when he heard my wife’s distress, he risked everything and offered to help us. I was suspicious to my core, but my much smarter wife agreed. Doc cleansed Sonya’s blood of the infection and reset her arm, which had been broken.”

Otto was forced to pause, as those who hadn’t heard of Doc as the healer began to talk excitedly, finally putting things together. Otto waited, but Becker had to call for quiet to allow him to continue.

“He risked the law to help save my baby girl, and what did he ask in return? Gold? Jewels? Her hand? No. All he asked was that we thank his goddess, Lady Luck. I’d never met a person as altruistic as him, and I doubt I will again. Doc, you are a special soul. Everyone you meet ends up richer for it, which brings me to the last toast.” Raising his drink, he looked at Fiala and Doc. “To the new couple: I pray that Luck always shines as brightly for you as you do for us.”

The crowd exploded in agreement as they toasted.

A few minutes passed, and people began to get up from their tables and move around. Becker approached the table and placed two pots in front of Doc and Fiala.

“What is this?” Doc asked softly.

“It’s time for dancing. Anyone who wishes to dance with either of you must pay,” Becker grinned as she dropped a twenty-dollar coin into Doc’s pot. “After you two share the first dance, that is, but I wanted to claim the second one before anyone else could.”

Fiala saw the coin and her eyes widened slightly. “Thank you, Elder.”

“The floor is directly behind you, and the musicians are ready,” Becker smiled.

Doc rose and took Fiala’s hand. “May I have this dance?”

“And any other you wish,” Fiala replied as she let him lead her.

Chapter Nineteen

Doc woke slowly, his brain a little foggy. Snippets of the wedding party drifted back to him— the dancing had taken a while, as some of the guests danced with them multiple times. Fiala kept all the shorter men at arm’s length, causing a few long faces from the single men. Doc had a number of hands drifting to his ass during his dances. After the third one did it, he just let them have a handful. Fiala shook her head, but didn’t comment as the dances went on.

Another memory hit Doc and he lingered on it, a smirk on his lips. Sonya paid to dance with Fiala, something that, while being a little unusual, didn’t cause too much of a stir among the dwarves. That was until Fiala brought Sonya in, putting the dwarven woman’s face between her modest breasts. That caused some discontentment among the males who’d been kept away from that treasure trove.

The only other big moment he recalled was the toss of a small bouquet of flowers. According to dwarven legend, whichever woman caught it was likely to marry her partner within the year. All the single ladies formed into a group to catch it except Posy, as Daf held her back and explained that she was too young.

Fiala turned her back to the group and, after a moment, tossed the flowers over her shoulder. Doc watched the scramble of female dwarves, Henrick, and Ayla as the bouquet flew through the air. When the flowers began their descent, Doc was shocked as he watched the dirty fighting that broke out.

One older dwarf trod on Henrick’s foot hard, making her wince and bend down to grab at her foot. Ayla’s elbow “accidentally” caught the temple of the dwarf that tried to push her out of the way. Ayla reached for the flowers, her eyes wide and hopeful, until Sonya clapped a hand on the half-elf’s shoulder and used that to jump up. Ayla was pulled back and down slightly, and Sonya got the height she needed to snatch the flowers a few scant inches before Ayla could.

“Cold-blooded,” Doc chuckled as he remembered the scene.

Ayla had been pretty upset as the crowd dispersed back to their tables until Sonya started speaking to her. Doc’s attention had been pulled away by Otto, who asked him a question, and by the time he looked again, Ayla and Sonya were shaking hands.

“At least they made up,” Doc murmured.

“Don’t wanna,” Fiala muttered, pushing her face into Doc’s chest.

Doc kissed her ear. “You don’t have to,” he whispered, rubbing her back lightly.

“Good...” Fiala murmured sleepily and rolled over.

Doc let her go and eased out of bed. He wondered what to do about water to clean up, sneaking over to the door to peek out. The moment he opened the door, he saw Posy with her hand raised. Doc put a finger to his lips and gave her a smile.

Posy nodded and set the pitcher of water on the ground, then went back to the stairs. Once he was sure she was gone, he opened the door wide enough to grab the water, but kept himself covered as much as possible.

Rinsing off, he got dressed and kissed Fiala’s ear once more before slipping out of the room. Let her sleep some. Lia did say she had the day off today when we got back from the party. I feel like I missed something important, though.

Trying to piece together what he could’ve been forgetting, Doc was lost in thought when he got to the main room. He stopped at the edge of the bar to talk with Jasmine, but she was at the other end of the bar. Someone cleared their throat nearby, and Doc glanced over at them to see if they wanted something.

The man standing there was short and thin— nearly two inches short of five and a half feet, and maybe a bit over a hundred and twenty pounds sopping wet. Dressed in a crisp white shirt, black pants, and a black vest, the man projected a very organized and neat appearance.

“Can I help you, sir?” Doc asked.

“Perhaps.” The voice was light, but carried a hint of command behind it. “I’m looking for a Doc Holyday.”

“Who might you be?” Doc asked.

“I’m Adam McIan, preacher of Apoc.”

“Hmm. It happens that I’m Holyday. Most call me Doc.”

“Good. I’d been waiting, as the… staff… told me you should be down shortly.” The one word was twisted and stilted enough that Doc knew Adam wanted to say something else.

“What can I do for the church today?” Doc asked civilly, wondering what the preacher would start with.

“I’ve been hearing a number of rumors about a newcomer to town who struck it rich, but has never come to the church. It dawned on me that I should seek him out. A man whose soul is in the wind can be easily led astray. The false words of the woodfolk or the false legends of the other races might harm such a person.”

Doc leaned against the bar and kept his face still. Adam had a persuasive manner to him that could’ve easily snared an unwary person. “But the church can stop that from happening, surely,” Doc said.

“Only if the man wants to be saved,” Adam said earnestly. “Too many good men and women fall to the wayside. Holding true to Apoc can be difficult at times, but everlasting salvation shouldn’t be easy. Some of the best try to help the less fortunate find salvation, and I hear you are one of them.”

“Oh?”

“Did you not, just yesterday, marry a bestial? Apoc knows they are damned for eternity, much like the dwarves, elves, and so on, but their children or children’s children, if they can find a pure man or woman to love them, might be human enough for salvation.”

Doc managed to keep his face clear, but his loathing of the church spiked. “Love knows no race,” Doc said evenly.

Adam nodded gravely. “A common response. The church doesn’t frown on such things, though it does mean the soul of the human is in jeopardy.” Adam stared at Doc with intense eyes. “Apoc can save anyone who wishes to be saved, even if they’ve been tainted.”

Doc’s lips twitched before he could settle them. “Apoc is very understanding.”

“When you love your children, as he does, it’s easy to forgive them.”

“Well, I’m the man you heard of,” Doc said, “and yes, I did indeed marry a wonderful woman yesterday.”

“Why have you not come to seek the counsel of the church?” Adam asked.

“Didn’t have a need, and it seems strange to bother the church for no reason.”

“Need? There doesn’t have to be a need. Everyone has doubts and worries. I try to help soothe those and help whoever wants to find an easier way. Have you had no worries or doubts, Doc?”

“Oh, I have plenty of both,” Doc said. “I believe they can help a man grow, though. Being given an easy path makes one less likely to keep fighting when things get tough.”

Adam was silent for a long moment. “Hmm... An interesting view.”

“Doc, did you want breakfast?” Posy asked, having come out of the back hall.

Doc glanced at Posy, a soft smile touching his lips. “Give me a few minutes, Posy? I’m speaking with the preacher.”

Posy looked at Adam and drew back, lowering her eyes to the floor. “Okay.”

Adam leaned down. “What a delightful child. What’s your name, dear?”

“Posy, sir...” Posy replied, her voice barely audible over the noise in the room.

“A delightful name. Have you heard the Words of Apoc?”

“Yes...” Posy answered, moving slowly back toward the door to the hall.

“Good, good. Know the truth of the Words and what you can do to make things better for yourself and your children.”

“Yes, sir,” Posy said, her back touching the door. “Excuse me, I have to work!” With that, she darted into the back.

“It’s good for them to know the Word,” Adam smiled.

“As you heard, it’s time for me to break my fast,” Doc said. “I’m sure we’ll find time to talk again.”

“As am I,” Adam smiled. “I will pray for you and your wife. Maybe Apoc will bless you.”

“Thank you,” Doc said. “May Apoc bless you, too, for all the good you do.”

“I’m blessed every day I see a new soul saved by the righteousness of Apoc.”

Doc took his leave of the preacher, feeling Adam’s eyes on his back the entire time.

~*~*~

Doc had finished breakfast and was still stewing over his meeting with Adam when Lia took a seat beside him. “Something troubling you, Doc?”

“Met the preacher of Apoc,” Doc said.

“McIan?”

“Yeah.”

“Hmm... What did he have to say?”

“Not a lot. It felt more like he wanted to size me up before anything happened, though what he did say makes me want to punch him in the face.”

Lia’s lips twitched. “Because you aren’t human and from this world. Many find the words of Apoc soothing to them, even the ones who should know better.”

“Only humans are fit to be saved?” Doc growled the sentence. “What kind of horseshit is that?”

“The kind that has pushed out every other religion and stamped out shamans,” Lia said. “We are lesser than men, and need to be cared for or bred out of existence.”

Doc’s eye twitched. “Okay. I didn’t exactly hate the church before, but now… now, I think I do. That’s the worst kind of bigotry.”

Lia gave him a soft smile. “Because you have a good heart, Doc. Too many just accept what the church says, even if they don’t believe in it themselves. They won’t speak out or go against it. Out here on the frontier, it’s a little different, but not much.”

“Same in every world, I guess,” Doc said. “Sad, and yet not unexpected.”

“I know yesterday was busy for you,” Lia said, clearly changing the topic, “but Rangvald never came in with a shipment.”

Doc exhaled. “That’s what I was forgetting.”

A knock on the door announced Ayla. “Doc, you’re here? Good. There’s a problem.”

“Rangvald hasn’t brought a shipment in,” Doc said.

“Yes.”

“Well, if the mountain won’t come to Muhammad...” Doc sighed as he got to his feet, not finishing the quote.

“What?” Lia asked.

“I’ll have to go check on them.”

“Good morning,” Fiala said, coming into the room with a bright smile. “Is something the matter?”

“Rangvald never showed up,” Doc said.

Fiala’s smile vanished. “What’re you going to do?”

“Go out to the mine,” Doc said. “See what’s going on.”

“You don’t think they’ve double-crossed you?” Ayla asked.

Doc snorted. “No. I’m more afraid Goodman or someone set an ambush.”

“I don’t think he’d go for that yet. The mine hasn’t proven to be sustainable,” Lia said.

“Only one way to find out,” Doc said. “I’ll grab my gear and head out. Should be back within the week.”

Fiala hugged him, leaning her head on his chest. “Stay safe, please? I’ll be waiting for you.”

“I will.”

“We’re supposed to pay the first installment to the Beavertons tomorrow,” Ayla said. “You don’t have enough left in the account for it.”

“I can help with this one,” Lia said. “I’m supposed to be his partner in this.”

“Do what you can. I’ll pay you back once the cash comes in,” Doc said.

“Fiala, breakfast?” Posy asked from the doorway.

“I want to see Doc off first,” Fiala said.

“Off?” Posy asked.

Doc sighed and had started to explain it again when Sonya appeared behind Posy. “Sonya?”

“Oh, good,” Sonya sighed. “Rangvald is at the bank. He asked for you to be notified.”

Doc felt the weight that’d been growing on his shoulders leave him. “Thank Luck...”

“He thought you might’ve been concerned,” Sonya said.

Ayla looked even more relieved than Doc felt. “Of course he was. Okay, I’ll go to Rangvald and find out what happened.”

“We will,” Doc said. “Fiala, stay, and have your breakfast. Lia, thank you for the offer. I need to go see what we have to work with.”

Saying his goodbyes, Doc was soon out the door, with Ayla and Sonya following him.

Chapter Twenty

Arriving at the bank, Doc was surprised by the dozen dwarves standing around the wagon. Burk gave Doc a wide grin. “Boss. We did the best we could to limit what we brought in.”

“Is anyone still at the mine?” Doc asked, but he didn’t see any of the other original miners.

“Most of the crew is still out there.”

The dwarves had been eyeing the group as they approached, but when Burk greeted him, they relaxed some. One of them gave Doc a knowing nod, and Doc recalled having healed the dwarf’s hand from an accident nearly a month ago.

“Time to go check in,” Doc said. “See you later.”

Muted conversations sprang up behind him, and Doc only caught a question about why the half-elf was following him. Burk started explaining before Doc entered the bank.

Rangvald looked over at the door when it opened, and a large smile grew on his face. “Doc, sorry for the delay. We broke a wheel yesterday and had to send one of the boys to get a replacement. I’ll make sure we have extra on hand.”

“I thought you already had an extra?”

“We did, but that busted when we were leaving the mine,” Rangvald said. “We might have overloaded the cart.”

“Got enough people to not worry about the mine?” Doc asked.

“We do now, and there are more on the way,” Rangvald said. “I know you thought about slowly bringing in the ore, but that’ll just give them more time to plan against you. I’m overstepping, but my advice is to go hard and fast.”

Doc took a deep breath. “Yeah, Goodman’s already been by to see me, and I doubt he’ll lay off even if we just brought in what we did last time.”

“Can I assay the sample now?” Friedrichsen asked, stroking his forked beard.

“Sure. Take the full time to get it as accurate as possible, please,” Doc said.

Friedrichsen chuckled. “I thought you’d opt for that this time.”

“Did Goodman give you any grief over the first set?” Doc asked.

Friedrichsen’s eyes darted over to the small cubicle wall dividing him from the new secretary. “Of course not,” he replied.

“Silly of me to ask,” Doc said dryly. “Are you taking stock of all the ore now? I’m sure they have more to take to the smelters.”

“We can weigh it and store it, since we’ll most likely be purchasing it all,” Friedrichsen said. “Miss Clamet, can you arrange storage for the prospective ore?” Friedrichsen asked loudly.

A blonde woman came out from what used to be Ayla’s office. Her attire was business, but also wasn’t— the skirt had slits up to the knee so she could easily move, and her top had three buttons undone. “Look, I’m not doing your job for you. My job isn’t that.”

Ayla snorted. “Your job, if it’s the same as it was for me, includes arranging for the ore to be stored in the vault and for a receipt to be given to the claimant.”

The blonde turned to Ayla and sneered. “Look, breed, why don’t you let me do my job? If you’d been any good at it, you’d still have it.”

Ayla’s eyes widened slightly, and her face went cold. “You dumb little—!”

“Problem?” the bestial guard asked. He’d come over during the conversation, cutting Ayla off.

“None at all for us,” Doc said levelly. “Just waiting for the bank to do its job of taking, weighing, and giving a receipt for ore that they’re responsible for purchasing.”

The bestial snorted as only a bull could. “Do it,” he said flatly to Clamet. Looking affronted, Clamet stalked off. The guard gave Doc a hard stare. “Don’t cause trouble.”

“So many people tell me that,” Doc shrugged. “Friedrichsen, is there any way to get an advance on what we’ll be receiving?”

“Depending on the amount of ore, it could be done,” Friedrichsen said, “if the advance isn’t too high.”

“Ayla, can you handle this?” Doc asked her.

“Yes,” Ayla replied.

“Thank you,” Doc said. “She’ll be handling the business from my end. She’s on the account.”

“Very well, sir,” Friedrichsen said.

“Are you going straight to the smelters?” Doc asked Rangvald as the bestial guard walked away.

“As soon as they unload the ore here,” Rangvald nodded.

“Dinner?”

“Sure. Best for me to catch you up on what’s happening at the mine.”

“Yeah,” Doc agreed. His idle rub at his chin told him it was time for a shave. “I’ll see you for dinner. Make sure to let Ayla know what the smelters give us?”

“Will do.”

~*~*~

Doc was halfway to the barber’s when he realized Sonya was still following him. “Sonya?”

“Is Fiala good for company?” Sonya asked him with a small smile.

“She has the day off, so I imagine she would welcome some company.”

“I’ll go speak with her,” Sonya said. “Did you like the dance last night?”

“Ours, you mean?” Doc asked for clarification.

“And mine with Fiala.”

“The second one was entertaining,” Doc chuckled. “I was surprised you didn’t go for a grip on my rump like the others.”

“Time and place,” Sonya replied. “That was Fiala’s night, and I’d do nothing to diminish it.”

“That was a mean trick on Ayla, though,” Doc added.

“I couldn’t let her outdo me,” Sonya replied with a smirk. “Now, I have confirmation that I’ll wed next from the clan.”

“Stubborn and straightforward,” Doc smiled. “Go talk with Fiala. I really do need a shave.”

“I don’t know... a little hair on your chin might be nice.”

“Maybe when I leave town, but for now, clean-shaven is the way I’ll go.”

“As you decide, Doc.” With a grin and a wink, she turned and started for the Lily.

Doc watched her go for a moment, then turned back around to head up to Otto’s. He didn’t make it a single step, though, as Grange stood in his way. “Sheriff, can I help you?”

“Heard a mine had a load come in today, and I know it’s not from the two reputable mines here in town.”

“My mine had a delivery,” Doc said levelly. “That a problem?”

“Not now, but if I find out that ore wasn’t mined but obtained through other means, we’ll be having a different chat.”

Doc kept his face as blank as he could, even though he was getting pissed at the sheriff. “And if you find it was mined, you’ll apologize for that slander?”

Grange didn’t reply— he just stepped around Doc and kept walking. Doc watched him go, his anger simmering as he stared at the sheriff’s broad back. Shaking his head, he exhaled a deep breath, and started walking himself.

~*~*~

The bell jingled when Doc entered the barbershop, taking off his hat as he did. “Take your time,” Doc replied to Otto’s perfunctory greeting. “I’ll need a shave and haircut today.”

“Easily done,” Otto replied as he kept working.

Doc took a seat and noticed who the other customer was. “Doctor, how are you today?”

Whittaker didn’t reply, as Otto had the straight razor under his nose at that moment. When Otto moved away, he cleared his throat and replied, “Fine, fine. Your name… was Doc, right?”

“Indeed.”

“Business has been decent, I’ve stopped having so many… people… asking me to look into their problems. Either Henrick got better, or an unlicensed healer is in town.”

“That sounds like it would cut into your business,” Doc said.

“Nonsense. Only the slowest of days would see me with the time or energy to heal the nonhumans.” Whittaker paused, clearly remembering something. “Did Henrick give you something that worked, Otto? I notice you finally stopped asking, and I know she didn’t die.”

“She was seen to,” Otto said tightly.

“Who would’ve thought that that quack would manage anything useful?” Whittaker laughed.

Doc felt his anger rise again. “She’s provided me with quite a few useful items.”

“Preventatives and the like. Yes, that’s what alchemy is good for— not real healing. That’s like trusting one of the ‘faith healers’,” Whittaker laughed. “As if anyone not of the church or having had training at the colleges can do anything.”

Otto stepped back, his hand balled into a white-knuckled fist. “All done, sir.” The words were clipped.

“About time, too. I have a meeting with Mr. Suez,” Whittaker said, getting up. “Here you go.” He held out a quarter to Otto.

“That covers today, but you owe me for all the haircuts and shaves that were going to go against you healing my daughter.”

Whittaker snorted. “Come now, Otto, don’t make a scene. I’ll just put the owed amount against any healing you need in the future.”

“I’d rather take my chances with Henrick or a faith healer than wait for you to finally take the time to heal a member of my family!” Otto snarled, his mustache bristling. “Pay what you owe and get out!”

Whittaker took a step back, his face white. “You ungrateful little man! I’ll never heal you, nor anyone from your clan, until you apologize fully, and in front of witnesses.”

“Pay. And. Leave,” he said harshly, his hand still clutching the straight razor. “Or do I get to take a pound of flesh?”

Whittaker pulled out his wallet and tossed a coin to Otto. “There, paid in full. I’ll enjoy listening to your plea for understanding later.”

Doc stayed silent as Whittaker stormed out, the door rattling when it slammed shut. “Bet that felt good.”

Otto exhaled a shaky breath. “It did. Sadly, I know he’s going to find Grange and tell him some story.”

“Too bad you have a witness,” Doc chuckled, “not that Grange will listen to me.”

“Shave and a haircut?” Otto asked. “I can do my job, at least.”

“Please,” Doc said.

~*~*~

Doc was just paying Otto when Grange entered the shop. “Of course Holyday is here,” Grange snorted. “Otto, I’ve had a complaint of you threatening upstanding members of the community.”

“No,” Otto said simply as he cleaned his tools.

“That’s all?” Grange asked after a few seconds of silence.

“I didn’t threaten any upstanding member of the community,” Otto replied.

“Doctor Whittaker said—”

“Oh, I’m sorry. If you’re talking about that walking pile of filth, I still didn’t threaten him. I asked him to pay his long overdue tab,” Otto said, cutting Grange off.

“You brandished your razor at him, I was told,” Grange said stiffly.

“No,” Doc interrupted. “He’d just finished shaving the doctor, so he had it in hand, but he didn’t brandish it at all. Well, not any more than he is right now.”

Grange looked at the blade in Otto’s hand. “Is that what you want on the record?” Grange asked Otto.

Otto shrugged. “It’s the truth. No matter how upset that pathetic slug is, fact is fact.”

“I see. At the moment, there is no evidence of a threat and no crime has been committed, so you’re free, but you’ll likely lose a lot of business once word gets around.”

“Then people can look like vagrants,” Otto said levelly. “That’s their choice.”

Grange shook his head. “You’ve been warned.”

When the door shut, Otto deflated slightly. “He’s not wrong. I’ll lose half my business over this.”

“I’m sure it’ll work out,” Doc said as he got to his feet. “Have some faith,” he added, flipping Otto a dollar coin.

Otto snagged the coin. “This is too much.”

“And I disagree,” Doc said, his hand on the door. “Luck will help, but faith is required.”

“You’ve shown me enough to know that she will,” Otto agreed.

Chapter Twenty-one

He took a detour over to the old saloon when he made it back to the Lily. Going through the back door, he could hear the pounding of hammers. When he stepped into the main room, he grinned at what he saw.

“Damn, that’s some fast work,” Doc grinned.

“Thank you,” Ursula said, putting down the hammer she’d been using.

“Expert quality, too,” Doc said, looking at the plank she’d just finished placing.

“It’s what we do,” Urik said from above him.

Doc looked up and gave the man a grin. “And I can see why anyone with half a brain would want you to do the work.”

Urik snorted. “What do you want?”

“I wanted to see how things were going.”

“Well,” Ursula replied, “it’s moving along smoothly.”

“Good. Though now that Urik’s said something, I do have a small thing to ask of you,” Doc said.

Urik jumped down from the second floor. “What is it?”

“The ore from the mine was delayed a day. It’s being assayed today, which means I won’t have your first payment until tomorrow. Can I pay you then?”

“By evening tomorrow,” Urik said stiffly. “A moment later than that and I’ll call it a breach.”

“Understandable. I’ll bring the payment as soon as the money clears. I might still get you paid today if the bank will give us an advance on the money. I just wanted to cover my bases.”

“We understand,” Ursula said, moving to stand beside her husband. “Lia speaks highly of you, so we’ll give you this chance.”

“Thank you,” Doc said, bowing his head to them. “I’ll get out of the way. I do love the opening you’ve created.”

“Just following the plans,” Urik said, looking at his wife proudly.

“The original drawings made it easy,” Ursula said.

“I think your husband has the right of it,” Doc said. “The plans you drew up were much better in many ways.”

Ursula smiled, her large orange teeth prominent. “Thank you.”

“Have a good day,” Doc said before leaving them to their work.

“You, too,” the couple called back to him.

~*~*~

Doc looked around the main room of the Lily. The tables were bustling, the drinks were flowing, and Jasmine hustled to fill orders. Doc gave Lotus a wink when he passed her table, getting a smile in return.

Going into the back hall, Doc was stopped by Posy. “Doc, I’m supposed to tell you that Fiala and Sonya went out. They’ll be back by dinner.”

“Okay. Thank you for letting me know, Posy.”

She beamed at him and gave him a small curtsy before bounding away happily.

Damned cute kid, Doc thought, then wondered about what he should do with his time. Get Henrick to come here so I can finish healing her? Yeah, best bet for right now. With his mind made up, he set back out.

~*~*~

Once he’d gotten Henrick to go to the Lily, he healed her the rest of the way. Now, she had perfect vision and was no longer addicted to the substances she’d been on. When he’d finished with that, he started walking her out, only to be hailed by Heather just settling in at the piano.

“There’s the newly married man,” Heather smiled. “I forgive you for not making it back out to play with me the other night, but I’d still like a bit of duo play with you.”

“I just finished what I’d been working on,” Doc said. Henrick stopped walking for the exit. “A few songs are entirely possible.”

“Good. Let’s make this place lively.”

Doc looked around the room, which was already well past half full. “Livelier, anyway.”

Henrick went over to the bar and waved Jasmine down to her. “Tea, please. Do they often play together?”

Jasmine sighed. “No. Hardly at all, but it means I won’t get the chance to dance, since I’m working.”

When the first few notes of music drifted from the piano, the conversation in the room dropped off and many eyes shifted to see who was playing. An excited murmur came from the poker players when they saw both Doc and Heather sitting at the piano, and a few started to cash out so they could move over to focus on the music.

After the two did a small warm-up piece, Doc gave Heather a smirk and played the opening for their duel. Heather grinned as she watched his fingers move. When he finished, she copied his piece, adding three flourishes he hadn’t.

The duel went back and forth, and Doc fell behind again. It was a foregone conclusion as to who was going to win, but Doc went down fighting as he always did. When he failed trying to follow up her last piece, he stood up and bowed to her as the room applauded them.

“Can’t keep up with her. She’s too good for me,” Doc told the room, “but I happen to know a few songs she doesn’t. Let’s see if she can copy one before I stop playing tonight.” A cheer went through the room as Doc sat back down.

“A new song?” Heather asked with bright eyes.

“Maybe. Let’s find out,” Doc chuckled. “It’s called Collegiate.”

Taking a moment, Doc could picture the movie where he’d first heard the song. Smile in place, he set his fingers over the opening keys and took a deep breath. Focused on the song, he blocked out everything around him and let his fingers glide over the keys.

As the song came to an end, Doc’s smile grew wider when he heard the thunderous applause. Standing once more, he gave the crowd a wave before taking his seat again. Heather was still staring at the ivories, clearly memorizing what he had done.

“So, what do you think?” Doc asked her.

“Again, please?”

“A pleasure. Try to keep up.”

Heather’s eyes narrowed, but she didn’t move them off the piano. “A challenge it is, then. I don’t lose challenges.”

“Let’s find out,” Doc laughed. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he announced, “one more time, for Heather.”

~*~*~

Taking a seat in the dining room, Doc massaged his hands. “Sorry... I got lost in the moment.”

“I noticed,” Ayla said a little stiffly. “I have the final figures from the ores from the smelters, and I’ve paid the Beavertons what we owe them for now.”

“You do wonders,” Doc said. “How do things look?”

“Comfortable, and that’s before the mythrium and soul stones are accounted for. You’re about to be the third richest man in town.”

“Well, this is going to snowball fast,” Doc said.

Ayla nodded, pulling a stack of papers from her bag. “I have some ideas about where and how to spend a safe amount.”

A knock on the door made them pause. They opened it to admit Rangvald and Lia. “Doc, might I join you?” Lia asked after Rangvald went inside.

“I’m good with that,” Doc replied. “Ayla, how is the big business picture going?”

“I’m working on it. The paperwork for everything is going to take me time. I’m not perfectly fluent in the legalese used on some of the forms, but we can’t use the lawyer in town. He’s under Suez’s thumb.”

“Hell...” Doc sighed. “That’s going to be a problem. Can we get a good lawyer from somewhere that won’t break us?”

“The clan has an anwalt, but he deals with dwarven conflicts. Barely dabbles in anything else,” Rangvald said. “The elders have harped at him for years to fix that, but he’s a stubborn old goat.”

“So he isn’t a lawyer?” Doc asked.

“More... counsel or advocate,” Rangvald replied.

“Lawyers are a thing of humanity,” Lia said. “No tribe had them.”

“Trying to find a good one and bring them here would be problematic,” Ayla said. “Finding anyone with schooling in law would be a good starting point, though.”

“Okay,” Doc sighed. “That took us away from what we had been discussing: money from today. Ayla, why don’t you fill us in?”

Ayla shifted her papers around. “Okay, let’s start with known debts, first.” A knock on the door stopped her again and made her purse her lips.

Fiala opened the door. “Oh, is this a meeting?”

“Come on in,” Doc said, standing up and pulling a chair out for her.

“Sonya’s with me,” Fiala said, looking over her shoulder.

“She can sit with us,” Doc said.

Ayla’s lips thinned more. “Doc, business shouldn’t be shared with everyone.”

Sonya had started to follow Fiala into the room, but stopped at the door. “She has a point.”

Fiala looked from Doc to Sonya and back. “Doc, I do like her. We’re still talking everything over, though.”

“Sonya,” Doc asked, “will you hold everything discussed here as private?”

“As I hold the secrets you’ve already told me,” Sonya said seriously. “I still hold that I will do anything for you.”

Ayla’s grimace was missed by most at the table, but not all. Her expression was neutral by the time Doc looked back at her. “It’s your choice, Doc.”

“Pull up a seat next to Fiala.”

Before Sonya could close the door, Posy was there with glasses and a tray with two wine bottles. “Momma said you’d need drinks, and dinner will be in an hour.”

“Daf’s a smart woman,” Doc grinned. “Come on in, Posy.”

Once the drinks had been served and Posy left, Ayla cleared her throat. “Okay… let’s try this again. Let’s start with known debts first.”

Everyone listened as Ayla laid out the finances of the business. Ayla was concise as she covered every topic she had. Once she was done with the known, she started in on the various options she had outlines for.

Doc had a faint smile on his face the entire time. Once she’d finished laying everything out, he spoke up, “Ayla, that was amazing.”

“I could never hope to do any of that,” Fiala said softly.

“She’s scary,” Sonya said.

“No, she’s just focused on her task and has had the training to do it,” Lia said. “That was put together very well, Ayla. Your mother would’ve been proud of you.”

Ayla stiffened in her seat for a moment. “I didn’t know you knew her, Lia.”

“We talked only a few times. I never had the right moment to mention it before. I now know why she spoke so highly of you.”

Ayla swallowed hard, her eyes misting for a moment. “She did?”

“Very much,” Lia said.

Rangvald coughed, clearly uncomfortable with the emotions in the room. “Which way is it going to be, Doc? You heard all the different options.”

Doc thought about it. “Well, we brought in more than the bank can handle, which means they’ll have to send to the capital to cover what we have on hand. We should wait at least two weeks before bringing in the next load.”

Rangvald nodded. “We could send a small group straight to the capital with the soul stone and have them deposit it up there. It’d be in your account in a day. That would help if you want to be aggressive about it.”

Doc sat back in his chair. “The more aggressive I get, the more aggressive they’ll be in return.”

“They’ll start to press, anyway,” Lia said simply. “You’ve become a threat overnight. It’ll start small, but they’ll ramp up quickly if they can’t force you out.”

“We’ll be beside you,” Fiala said, placing her hand on his. “This is the path Luck set you on, but you aren’t alone.”

“I was planning on going out to the mine,” Doc sighed. “I’ll have to cancel that if they’re going to cause trouble.”

“Why go to the mine?” Ayla asked.

“To let Rosa know what’s going on. Hm… I might be able to spin it as if the miners pulled too much too fast.”

Rangvald nodded. “Tapping the mine too quickly. We can work that, maybe. You’d need to chew me out pretty harshly in front of people.”

“The front room is full as normal,” Fiala suggested. “A prepared audience.”

“That’ll only slow them, not stop them,” Ayla said. “They’ll still send people out to check the mine.”

“If they haven’t already,” Doc said. “Okay. Take the moderate of the plans. Ayla, you’re in charge of executing it. Fiala… I’m sorry for—”

“No. I’m going with you,” Fiala cut him off. “I need to meet her.” Her eyes went to Sonya. “Before anything else happens.”

Sonya bowed her head. “I should go home, then. Is it okay if I slip out the back?”

“I’ll show you the way,” Lia said, rising from her chair.

“Doc,” Ayla asked, “if you’re going to chew Rangvald out as we leave, maybe include me in it a little? Goodman is undoubtedly watching what I do. He knows I’m capable, but if I’m being chastised by you for doing a bad job, maybe he’ll relax a little.”

“Okay,” Doc nodded. “Sonya,” he said quickly before she left with Lia, “I’ll have an answer for you soon, I think.”

Sonya’s face lit up, and she bobbed her head. “I hope so.”

Chapter Twenty-two

Doc picked up his gear from the ground beside the table. “Ready to go, Fiala?”

Fiala nodded as she got to her feet. “I think so.”

“You’re going out with the wagon, but you’ll be on a horse coming back,” Lia said.

“She’ll be riding a placid mount and following me,” Doc said.

Fiala looked a little nervous. “I’ll be fine.”

Lia shook her head. “When you get back, we’ll have to see about getting you some riding lessons. Not knowing how to ride a horse can get you or those with you killed.”

“Maybe I should stay, then...” Fiala said softly.

“This trip should be fine, but she’s right— we’ll have to get you trained before we leave town. That goes for anyone coming with us.”

“That’ll be at least three people who need to learn,” Lia said. “I’ll talk to an old friend and see if they’ll take on the challenge.”

“Thanks, Lia,” Doc said. “Okay, they’re probably waiting for us. Let’s go.”

“Stay safe,” Posy said from near the kitchen.

Doc gave her a smile. “We will, Posy. Be good while we’re out.”

“She will,” Daf said from behind her daughter. “Luck watch over you.”

“I have a feeling she always will be,” Doc grinned.

Jasmine called out as they came out of the back hall. “Doc… please be safe.”

“No worries. Luck is with me,” Doc told her.

Fiala gave Jasmine a knowing smile and mouthed a single word to her before following Doc out the door.

Walking down the street to the livery, Doc gave Fiala a glance. She was dressed in pants instead of a skirt and wearing a flannel shirt, boots with a very low heel, and a wide-brimmed hat. “You okay, Fiala?”

“I’m fine… a little nervous, is all. I don’t want to cause you trouble.”

“It’ll be okay. On the way back, you might end up saddle sore, but I can heal that.”

“Okay.”

The livery stable didn’t have a lot of business when they got there, for which Doc was glad. Fiala stayed outside, chatting with the dwarves while Doc went in to get horses. A few minutes later, he was mounted and leading a second horse out of the stables.

“We’re good to go. Tie this one to the back, please?” He handed the reins off to one of the dwarves.

“Will do, Boss.”

“Let’s get going,” Doc said brusquely. “Have to see what’s left out there.”

Rangvald snapped the reins of the wagon and got it moving without replying.

~*~*~

Once they were out of town by a couple of hours, Doc rode up alongside Rangvald. “How’d it go?”

Rangvald laughed. “Oh, it was a beauty. Rumor around town is you’ll fire me by next week. Getting word back to the clan so they knew what we were doing without it being noticed was harder, but I managed it.”

“The Lily was talking about little else after he threw you out,” Fiala giggled.

“That did add a bit of shine to the whole thing,” Rangvald laughed.

“I saw it from the outside and was a bit panicked,” one of the dwarves admitted. “Wondered what had happened. If he hadn’t told me it was an act in passing, I don’t know what I would’ve done.”

“Hopefully, it buys us some time,” Doc said. “You’re sure you’ll be fine out at the mine?”

“We have the people there to keep it secure,” Rangvald said. “You’ll see when we get there. Jesamin’s been working hard just to keep us stocked on meat. The boys have been coming along nicely, too. They’re helping the new cook now instead of doing it all themselves.”

“Should be interesting,” Doc said.

Rangvald gave Doc a sideways glance. “If you want anything changed—”

“You’re my foreman,” Doc cut him off. “I know dick all about mining. It’d be idiotic for me to dictate how the mine works.”

“True, but that hasn’t stopped others,” Rangvald said. “You were also very convincing last night.”

Doc chuckled. “You’re fine. Speaking like an overbearing asshole is easy. I just thought, ‘what would Goodman say?’”

That got laughter from everyone.

“Well, you nailed that,” Rangvald laughed.

“Thank you?” Doc said with a questioning lilt to his voice.

“I heard a rumor when I spoke with the clan,” Rangvald said after a moment. “You passed the Rite of Heriz.”

“I did.”

“Ah...”

“Something on your mind?”

“It’s just… not many would do the rite and not marry into the clan. You just married Fiala here and... well…” Rangvald trailed off.

“He’s considering it,” Fiala said. “I’m not opposed to other wives in our marriage, but they have to be right for him.”

Rangvald’s eyebrows went up. “Well, that’s certainly unexpected.”

“Why?”

“Takes a strong woman to let her husband be with another.”

“Or complete trust in your partner,” Fiala replied. “Doc and I discussed it, and as long as we both agree, then another can join our marriage.”

“Maybe the second rumor had more merit than I’d considered,” Rangvald said, scratching his chin.

“Second rumor?” Doc asked.

“That you’re going to become shaman to the clan,” Rangvald said. “You’d have to marry into the clan for that.”

“There’s a potential prospect,” Doc said. “Fiala is speaking with her about it. If it works out, then yes, I will probably take up that mantle.”

“Been a long time since a clan had a shaman,” another dwarf said. “It’ll give us a big boost with the other clans.”

“We’ll see,” Doc said. “Nothing is certain.”

“Death,” one of the dwarves said.

“And taxes!” added another, prompting the others to laugh.

~*~*~

The day was quiet, with only light conversations among the group. Fiala got onto her horse for a while and rode behind Doc, clearly nervous, but doing her best. The dwarves gave her words of encouragement, but none of them gave her any tips, as they didn’t ride horses.

The spot beside the road that Doc had used to make camp before was starting to look like a well-used campsite. A fire pit was still in place, and some logs had been placed near it. Another area had been cleared and made a good rest stop for the wagon and horses.

“Makes sense,” Doc chuckled. “Might as well make it easier to get to and from.”

“That was the thinking,” Rangvald said. “We’ve also made sure that a few unpleasant surprises are placed at likely ambush spots, in case anyone thinks about trying to do that to us.”

“It’s only paranoia if no one’s out to get you. Otherwise, it’s forward planning,” Doc laughed.

Rangvald laughed with him. “I’ll remember that.”

“We’ll have camp set up in a few minutes,” one of the dwarves told Doc.

“Good. I’ll have time to curry the horses,” Doc said. “Fiala, let me show you how to take care of them.”

She joined him by the two riding horses, and he walked her through the steps to curry them. Fiala was smiling the whole time as she learned and, by the time they finished, the dwarves were already working on dinner.

“It’ll just be a quick soup,” Rangvald said as they took seats by the fire. “Doc, we’ll be needing a second wagon starting from the next time we come in.”

“For supplies?”

“Yes. We’re setting up some buildings and want to make sure everything is well stocked. Once we’re sure there won’t be much trouble, if it’s alright with you, we’d like to move the wives out. Those that want to come, that is.”

“I don’t have a problem with that, but you might want to hold off until after we have the town well in hand.”

“We will, but we weren’t sure if you’d allow it.”

Doc shook his head. “I’m going to say it only one more time: everything about the mine is in your hands, Rangvald. If it’s for the good of the mine in one form or another, it’s your choice.”

Rangvald nodded, his face serious. “Very well. Will Ayla go along with that?”

“Unless she thinks you’re doing something funny,” Doc replied. “I don’t see any problems coming up.”

“Vegetable soup is ready,” the dwarf at the pot said. “Line up, boys… and lady.”

Fiala smiled. “Thank you.”

~*~*~

Dinner was better than the last time Doc had gone out to the mine— the soup had good seasoning to it this time. With the meal done, Doc stretched out his legs and smiled when he saw a glimmer of an emerald eye in the shadow of a tree.

“Fiala, come with me, please,” Doc said as he got to his feet. “Rangvald, I’m going to go talk to Rosa. Please make sure we’re not disturbed.”

Rangvald nodded and looked at his men. “Stay in camp, period.”

“Yes, sir,” the others said, settling in for the night.

Fiala licked her lips as she followed Doc out of the ring of light cast by the campfire. She exhaled when Doc took her hand in his, and her breathing steadied.

“It’ll be fine,” Doc said reassuringly.

“It will be,” Rosa said, stepping out from a tree a dozen yards ahead of them. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Fiala.”

Fiala’s breath caught in her throat when Rosa stepped into sight. The moonlight illuminated Rosa’s naked body.

“Thank you. You are very lovely yourself,” Rosa smiled.

“I… I didn’t…?”

“She can read minds if she’s close enough,” Doc said. “Isn’t that right?”

Rosa bowed her head. “Doc is correct. There are no secrets that can be kept from me, unless they have arcane artifacts or are touched by the Darkness.”

Fiala swallowed as her mind raced. She’d thought about meeting Rosa, but the idea of what the dryad could do to her frightened her. “It’s a pleasure.”

Doc gave Fiala’s hand a squeeze. “It’s okay, Fiala. Rosa will never hurt you.”

“You are precious to Doc and, as such, are precious to me,” Rosa smiled.

“Rosa, I married Fiala. She’s my wife.”

Rosa’s face flickered through a range of emotions for a moment. “A beautiful wedding. There is likely to be another soon?”

“Sonya,” Fiala said. “You can see her in our minds?”

“Stubborn, relentless, yet she does appear earnest in wanting to be beside Doc and help him. She will be your greatest rival, Fiala.”

“Not you?”

Rosa shook her head. “No. I’m but a lowly weed, not a flower like yourself.”

Fiala frowned, and Doc snorted. “It’s part of how Rosa and I interact. Remember how I said things were different between me and her?”

“Oh...”

“Yes, I’m not worthy of his gentle touches and love. I’m merely a weed allowed to exist at his whim,” Rosa said, her eyes starting to glow.

“Not now,” Doc said firmly. “We’ll get to that when we’re leaving the mine.”

Rosa shuddered and let a small gasp escape. “As the Voice demands.”

Fiala blinked, not sure what to make of the dryad that was so easily controlled by her husband. “I’m looking forward to speaking with you more, Rosa.”

“Hopefully more than just talking,” Rosa said, her eyes still showing a hint of glow. “I’ve had so many thoughts on what might happen since he left.”

“I’m not opposed to the idea,” Fiala admitted. “You can clearly see that.”

“Yes, and you’re just barely scratching the surface of what I want him to do to me.”

Eyes widening, Fiala’s face heated. “Oh.”

“That’s enough,” Doc said gently, but firmly. “I just wanted you two to meet. This way, Fiala can decide how she feels about you. Is everything else okay?”

“There has been nothing unusual since your last visit,” Rosa replied. “Mother thanks you for freeing her child and giving her back my sister.”

“Your sister was Lia’s doing, and she’s welcome. How are you on energy?”

“I have expended very little, but I will always welcome more. I want to keep myself in perfect condition for you. And, as to the thought in the back of your mind— no, I am not pregnant, nor will I be unless you allow it. It would hinder my being able to go with you. I want that very much, Doc, but as your friends have told you, it requires things to be in order.”

“You want to be chained to me?”

Rosa shivered again, her lips parting. “Please?”

“Why did I ask?” Doc snorted. “I’ll see.”

“As you wish it,” Rosa murmured, her whole body clearly aching with need.

“The night we leave the camp, find us,” Doc told her.

“As you command,” Rosa said, stepping back. The moment her back touched the tree, she vanished from view.

Fiala exhaled. “She’s terrifying, but I don’t feel afraid of her with you beside me.”

“Are you going to be okay with her coming with us?”

“Strangely, yes. I think it’d be safer to have her beside us. I’ll have to talk with Sonya about her. I mentioned Rosa before, but I had no idea what she was really like.”

“Okay. Let’s go get some sleep.”

Fiala looked over her shoulder. Camp was a bright spot, well removed from them. “Do we have to go back right away?”

Doc paused, catching her meaning. “Not the most comfortable spot, but we can manage something.”

“Please, husband?” Fiala asked.

“As my wife wishes,” Doc murmured, taking her into his arms and kissing her.

Neither of them spotted the emerald eyes watching them from the darkness, nor did they hear the soft moans coming from behind the tree over their own sounds of pleasure.

Chapter Twenty-three

Doc whistled softly when they came into view of the mine. “Did some good work.”

The camp near the waterfall was larger than Doc anticipated. The wooden palisade that had been built around most of it was unexpected, but made sense to him if they were expecting trouble. The high ground above the camp had a palisade, too. The gate was wide open, letting Doc see into the camp itself. Tents took up most of the grounds inside. Near the newly-created tunnel, Doc could see the cut logs that had been set out for seats.

“It’s still rough and far from done,” Rangvald said. “Once we get some buildings up, it’ll be even better.”

“What have you been doing about the trees?” Doc asked.

Rangvald cleared his throat. “Umm, about that... I asked Rosa for help in that regard. She said she’d replant a tree for each we took, but that we’d better use everything we cut down.”

“Have you been?”

“I’m not about to anger a dryad,” Rangvald said. “We use everything we can, minus the stumps that we passed on the way in. I plan on getting them out later, but I’m waiting for a few special tools to come with more of the extended clan.”

“Then it’s fine,” Doc said. “How many are here?”

“Forty with us back, so forty-two with you and Fiala.”

Doc’s lips twitched upward at the final number. A line from his favorite book flitted through his mind. “Glad to know we have the answer, at least.”

“Let’s get the horses settled and you can show me what you’ve done.”

“The boys can get the horses settled,” Rangvald said. “They need the practice, anyway.”

“I can stay and help them, too,” Fiala said.

“Okay,” Doc said as Tony and Joseph came running over. “How have you two been?”

“Good,” Tony said. “We’ve been learning a lot.”

“And we make sure our jobs are always done,” Joseph added.

“Glad to hear it,” Doc said as he climbed out of the saddle. “Take care of the horses. Fiala will be helping since she’s still learning, too.”

Both boys nodded, but Tony was the one who spoke up, “We will. We’ll show her how it’s done. No worries.”

The dwarves split away from the wagon once the boys had shown up, each of them going to different spots in camp. Doc waved to Alf and Burk when he spotted them on the high ground, rifles in their hands.

“Guards?” Doc asked Rangvald.

“Just two right now, but we’ll be adding more. We know that load we brought in will cause trouble.”

“Show me what you’ve been up to,” Doc said.

“It’s all inside,” Rangvald replied, heading for the tunnel. “Well, besides the stairs we made to make it easier to get up and down.” He motioned to one side of the camp at the stairs that’d been carved into the rock face.

“Nice work,” Doc chuckled. “What about the entrance on the far side?”

“Have a lookout set up there. They’ll be hard to spot. I’ll show you after the tunnel.”

“Fair enough, Rangvald. Lead on.”

The tunnel was lit with lanterns that illuminated a wide arc in front of them. Doc caught the glint of polished metal behind the flame. A handful of dwarves looked up as they came past them, giving the two nods.

“Didi, how’s it going?” Rangvald asked the dwarf kneeling next to the pool of water that contained soul stones.

“Slow and steady,” Didi said, not looking up. “Damned troublesome material to work with. Expensive, though, so it’s worth it.”

“We’re not in a rush, so go slow,” Doc said.

Didi looked up and smiled broadly. “Doc! Come to see what we’ve been doing?”

“Thought it’d be a good idea, considering the last haul.”

“He chewed me out in front of everyone at the Lily to buy him a little more time,” Rangvald said.

“You thought it might come to that,” Didi replied.

“Don’t let us stop you,” Doc said. “I’m just getting a tour.”

“Right,” Didi said. “See you at dinner.”

“Sure enough,” Doc replied.

They walked further inside, passing another couple of dwarves who were working on gold veins. Just past them, Fulco, Ivan, Rudi, and Urs were gathered around the mythrium vein.

“Gods damn,” Doc said when he saw just how big the area of mythrium was now.

Rangvald laughed seeing Doc’s face. The other four turned to see what was so funny, and they began to laugh, too. Doc snorted, joining in their mirth.

“Yeah, I’m sure I looked like a slack-jawed yokel.”

“Is that how humans phrase it?” Urs laughed.

“Probably,” Doc said. “So that small sliver we saw lead to this?”

“Told you I thought it was only the tip,” Rangvald said, wiping at his eyes.

“How deep do you think it goes?”

“We’ll only find out once we dig more,” Rangvald said. “Considering your goddess, I won’t be surprised if it becomes the richest strike in history.” He looked pensive for a second. “We’ll need a lot more people for that, but that beauty right there will cover it with ease.”

“Did you all take the percentage?” Doc asked the others.

“We did,” Ivan grinned. “Honestly, it would be better for you if you just doubled the base and discontinued the percentage.”

“That’ll be up to Ayla,” Doc said. “She’s handling the money side of things. If you have an expert, let them handle it.”

“He means that,” Rangvald said. “I’ve been told a dozen times that I have the final say on the mine so we can do this right. Big news at dinner tonight, too, so make sure to pack up on time for once?”

Fulco laughed. “We just get lost in the groove.”

“Be at dinner,” Rangvald said firmly. “Clan business.”

“We’ll be there,” Ivan said.

“See you there,” Doc said.

“Sure thing, Boss.”

Doc and Rangvald went further down the tunnel, greeting the dwarves as they walked by them, until they came to the shaft that started it all. A single dwarf sat mostly below the lip in a niche that was obviously created just for that purpose.

“The lookout is on this side,” Rangvald said.

“Seems pretty visible to me,” Doc said.

“Come on up and see what you think,” Rangvald laughed as he headed for the wall the dwarf was sitting on. “Hand and footholds are here. Oh, we might need some more light for you.”

“I’ll be fine,” Doc said. “You lead.”

Rangvald gave a small nod and started climbing. Doc followed him, bypassing the dwarf on watch by a foot. Climbing out of the shaft, he looked around the top and could see the dam the dwarves had made a dozen yards away.

“We go this way for a bit first,” Rangvald said, walking down the dry streambed.

“Why’s that?”

“To break your perception of where the lookout is. Now, pick a direction and walk for a while. Then, head back toward the shaft and stop when you spot the lookout.”

Doc shrugged and turned hard right. After walking a few dozen yards, he stopped and turned to face the shaft. Lips pursed, he stared at the opening, but failed to see the dwarf. Walking slowly, he kept his eyes focused on the opening.

Ten feet away, Doc stopped. “Hell, that’s good.”

“Expected him right at the edge, huh?” Rangvald grinned.

“Yes, I did. That’s clever.”

“Old trick,” Rangvald chuckled, which was echoed by the lookout. “If I blindfolded you, walked you around randomly, then released you, you’d probably still miss him until double this distance.”

“I believe you,” Doc said. “Why not just cover it over?”

“Hard to do without being obvious,” Rangvald said. “They could break the dam up there, but that’d only work during the flood season, and we’d be ready for that tactic.”

“Appears you have things covered,” Doc said. “Figured you would, though. How is Jesamin doing?”

“Good, as far as I can tell,” Rangvald said. “She only comes in to drop off food now. Haven’t seen her cat at all since… since the se’sxac.”

“I thought I healed Krisriit,” Doc sighed. “Hell, is she due back tonight?”

“No schedule for her,” Rangvald said. “Maybe Rosa told her you’re back?”

“We’ll find out,” Doc said. “Let’s walk back. I’d like to see the top.”

“No way in up here,” Rangvald said. “We can walk back topside or go back down.”

“Topside. I’d like to see things from this angle.”

“Sure.”

~*~*~

The day passed with Doc meeting the other dwarves in camp. Fiala was taken into the tunnel by Rangvald to be shown the mine when she asked. Doc took that time to catch up with Tony and Joseph. They were both beyond thankful for allowing them to be part of the mine, even showing him the chunks of gold that they’d collected over the last few weeks. When they asked if he could take them back to give to their mothers, Doc agreed and encouraged them to keep doing their best.

Dinner was almost ready when a whistle came from the overlook. Doc glanced up to see Alf pointing toward the gate. Looking where he was pointing, he saw Jesamin striding with long, graceful steps for the camp. A tarp trailed her, and Doc caught sight of horns on it.

Tony and Joseph sped for the gate to meet her. Jesamin saw Doc and handed the tarp to them, not speaking as she made a beeline for him. Her pace slowed when she saw Fiala standing beside him.

“Doc,” Jesamin said softly, “I didn’t expect you to come.”

“Just checking that everything was okay,” Doc said. “Where’s Krisriit?”

“Tree line. He doesn’t like the camp. Too many people.”

“He’s okay?”

“Yes, healed completely. Thank you.”

“No thanks needed. Without him, we might not have survived the se’sxac. We’ll be heading back to town tomorrow. Can I check him then?”

“Of course,” Jesamin said.

“I’d also like you to meet my wife, Fiala. Fiala, this is Jesamin. She’s the guardian and hunter for the camp.”

Fiala gave her a strained smile. “I know Jesamin. She and Lia don’t get along.”

“They should get along fine now. Lia owns the Lily again.”

Jesamin’s brow furrowed for a second. “You helped her?”

“Just as I helped Krisriit,” Doc said lightly. “I am her partner in running the Lily. It’s also expanding and becoming a gambling hall instead of... its previous incarnation.”

Jesamin nodded slowly. “If you are involved, it is okay. I acknowledge that the conflict is resolved.”

“Good. I don’t like it when friends fight,” Doc said. “Are you staying for dinner?”

“I would like to hear what is happening in town.”

“Dinner should be soon. Let’s sit, and we can talk for a bit,” Doc said.

~*~*~

Dinner was stew with bread. It was good, but paled compared to Daf’s food at the Lily. When dinner had been finished by the majority of the camp, Rangvald stood up.

“News from town,” he announced, “that has a bearing on the mine and clan business. Doc underwent the Rite of Heriz, and has been accepted as part of the clan.”

All the dwarves in camp looked at Doc with even greater respect.

“Doc also married Fiala, and their wedding feast was held in the clan hall.”

People all began to congratulate the newlyweds. Doc and Fiala thanked them for the kind words.

Once the hubbub died down, Rangvald spoke on, “We should expect the others here within the week. They won’t be going to town, but will come to our camp by the road. Jesamin, I’ll need you to head that way in a few days and wait for them.”

Jesamin nodded.

“As for the town, well... things have been kicked up a little,” Rangvald chuckled. “Doc, do you want to explain it?”

“Your camp,” Doc said. “I’ll just jump in to correct, if needed.”

“Okay. To start with, the Lily is being expanded…”

~*~*~

Doc waved back to the camp as they rode away the next morning.

“That might well become a town in its own right,” Fiala said.

“Maybe, but it’ll take longer than a few months, and by then, I expect Goodman and Suez to be out of Deep Gulch.”

“You expect them to move quickly?”

“Once they realize the mine is richer than I’ve been letting on, yes.”

“What do we do?”

“Follow the plan we have in place and be ready to adapt,” Doc told her. “First, we meet with Jesamin and Krisriit.”

It was an hour out of camp before they found Jesamin and Krisriit waiting for them. Jesamin stayed seated on a stump, but Krisriit got to his feet and got between her and them.

“Easy,” Doc said calmly. “I just wanted to check on you.”

When Doc spoke, Krisriit’s ears perked forward and his head swiveled to the side slightly. Doc handed his reins to Fiala and got off the mare. Krisriit watched him with bright eyes, front end crouching slightly.

“Hey, now, I fixed your leg. Be nice,” Doc chided him softly. “Saved your elf for you, too.”

Krisriit let out a vibrating sound and his front end crouched further.

Doc looked past him to Jesamin, who was watching Doc with a blank expression.

Before he could ask her anything, Krisriit sprang. Doc let out a surprised sound as the two-hundred-pound feline knocked him down. Fiala let out a small shriek of fear and surprise, and the two horses whickered and backed away. Jesamin laughed as she watched the two rolling on the ground.

Doc realized he wasn’t being attacked when a hot huff nearly deafened him and Krisriit headbutted him. He became a little less certain when the cat bit his arm, but the bite was gentle, and his jacket and shirt took the majority of it. Relaxing once he realized the cougar was just being friendly, Doc exhaled and began to scratch Krisriit’s ears and neck.

“You damned cat,” Doc laughed as he roughed his neck. “Almost gave me a heart attack.”

“Doc!?” Fiala called out to him, her voice tinged with fear.

“Fine. I’m fine,” Doc said as he pushed the mountain lion off him. “See? Fine. Oof!”

Krisriit hit him from behind, bowling him over and laying down. Jesamin laughed and wiped at her eyes as she watched Doc become a bed.

“Help him!” Fiala snapped at Jesamin.

Jesamin shook her head. “He is fine. Krisriit won’t hurt him. He is thanking him and showing affection.”

Fiala took a deep breath and, when she exhaled her fear out, she could see what Jesamin was saying. “Oh...”

“Yes. Tie the horses and meet him?”

“Is that okay?”

“He likes very few, but you are Doc’s wife. You should have his scent on you, so you will be fine.”

Fiala got the horses tied up and approached Krisriit slowly, speaking softly, “Hello, Krisriit. I’m Fiala, Doc’s mate. You’re a mighty one, aren’t you?”

Krisriit sat there majestically when Doc stopped trying to dislodge him. Raising his head, he sniffed as Fiala got closer. He didn’t move, even when Fiala extended her hand to him. When she touched his neck, he pushed his head into it. A deep, rumbling purr came from him as Fiala got just the right spot.

“He likes you, too. Not surprising,” Jesamin said.

“Can someone get him off me, please?” Doc muttered from the ground. “I really do want to check him.”

“Kris, come,” Jesamin said in Elvish.

Krisriit huffed and got up slowly, stretching as he did. Doc sighed, knowing his jacket was done for as he felt the flexing of claws. With a slow, indifferent manner, the cougar went over to Jesamin.

Doc groaned and rolled over, triggering healing hands to heal the small punctures and scratches he’d gotten from the friendly byplay with the cat. “Affectionate.”

“He’d have torn the face off of almost anyone else,” Jesamin said. “He is very pleased with you.”

“Glad he’s a friend and not a foe,” Doc said as he shifted over to touch Krisriit.

His energy pushed into the cougar and he knew that Krisriit was fine. No damage he could find, outside of a split claw on his back left paw. Doc let it heal up before shutting down his gift.

“He’s fine. Only a single claw was broken, but it’s good now.”

“You’re going to leave the town after you get the others out?” Jesamin asked, wanting to clarify what she’d heard last night.

“Eventually. It might take some time to remove them from power so they’re not a problem anymore.”

“You will need capable people beside you.”

“Yes. I’ll also need capable people to stay behind. This way, I know that the town will continue to be safe.”

Jesamin nodded slowly. “That makes sense. I will do my job. Safe travels.”

“Safe travels, Jesamin, Krisriit,” Doc said, giving the big cat another good scratch behind his ears.

Krisriit chuffed and headbutted Doc once more before rising to his feet and moving off with Jesamin.

“She is nicer than I recall,” Fiala said when they could no longer see Jesamin.

“Well, the last time you saw her, she was fighting with Lia, so that makes sense,” Doc chuckled. “Come on. We have ground to cover before tonight.”

Chapter Twenty-four

Doc helped Fiala down from her mount and onto the log that had been made into a bench at the campsite. “It’s normal unless you ride more often,” Doc told her.

“I just feel like a hindrance right now,” Fiala said.

“You’re not,” Doc told her as he triggered healing hands. Pulling her leg up, his hand touched the skin under the hem of her pants. His energy rushed up to the stiffness and soreness, soothing it.

Fiala relaxed as he healed her. “You’ll need that energy for her.”

“I can spare some,” Doc said. “Now that you’re good, we should split camp chores.”

“I’ll care for the horses,” Fiala said. “I think I’m getting better at it.”

“I’ll get the fire and dinner going, then,” Doc smiled at her.

Doc had to help Fiala with the horses, as she’d forgotten a few steps, but they soon had the horses settled and dinner in their bellies.

“Trail food makes one appreciate a good cook more,” Doc said.

“It wasn’t bad,” Fiala said.

“It kind of was, and it’s okay to say it,” Doc told her. “I’ve had much worse, but that was barely passable.”

Fiala looked down. “Okay. It wasn’t good, but it wasn’t horrible, either.”

“I agree,” Doc said, putting his arm around her shoulders. “It’s okay to be truthful. It might hurt a little, but honesty is something I treasure.”

“Okay... It’s just that all my life, it’s been better to tell the small lies to make people feel better.”

“That’s the way it is for most people,” Doc said. “Our relationship is going to be complicated enough with Sonya, Rosa, and who knows who else involved. I’d rather we all just spoke honestly. It’ll save more trouble than it creates in the long run. The hard part will be getting used to hearing and speaking the little truths.”

“I’m afraid that Rosa or one of the others will get more of your attention,” Fiala whispered, as if saying the words might make them real.

Doc squeezed her shoulder. “At times, they might. That doesn’t mean I love you any less.”

“He thinks of you often,” Rosa said, coming out from behind a tree nearby. “Much more than he thinks of me.”

“Really?” Fiala asked, looking at the gorgeous woman walking toward them.

“Thank you for the thoughts, Fiala. He sees you as an equal to me in beauty. Apples and oranges, he thinks. Both delicious, but in different ways.”

“Really?” Fiala asked again, but this time, to Doc.

“Truly,” Doc replied. “Any man would be lucky to have one of you in his life. I’ve been blessed to have you both. I will do everything I can to make sure you’re both happy.”

“Binding me and taking me with you so that I can always be beside you to provide aid is my greatest desire,” Rosa said, her eyes glowing lightly.

Fiala glanced at Rosa. “You don’t mind?”

“Being secondary to all others? Not at all. It means I will be there to assist him as he requires, and I will get the attention he thinks I deserve.”

Fiala licked her lips. “Even if he ignores you all night in favor of me?”

Rosa’s eyelashes fluttered and she inhaled slowly. “If that is what Doc wants, then it is what I want. Being forced to only watch makes me tingle.”

“I told you she has different inclinations than you do, Fiala,” Doc said.

“You could show her,” Rosa said in a smoky voice.

“I’m curious,” Fiala said, “but I’ve also been wanting more since our first night out.”

Doc chuckled. “Weed, sit your pretty ass down. No playing with yourself. You’re to watch and wait until I call for you.”

Rosa sat down abruptly, her eyes glowing as she stared at Doc. “As you command.”

Fiala bit her lip. “Actually, can you let her touch herself? It’ll make me feel better.”

“Weed, small play only. No orgasms,” Doc said softly as he put a hand behind Fiala’s head. “For you, my lovely wife,” he added, then kissed her softly.

Fiala melted into his kisses, mostly able to ignore Rosa sitting a few feet away. As the kisses grew more heated and hands began to roam, Rosa’s soft gasps made Fiala glance over. Reclining against a log, Rosa’s legs were spread wide open and a single finger rubbed gently at her slit. The sight gave Fiala a rush of excitement that this beautiful dryad was eager to watch them.

Clothing was shed and after a brief pause to clean themselves up quickly, Doc had his face buried between Fiala’s thighs.

Fiala gasped and ran her hands through Doc’s hair as she watched Rosa fingering herself. “He’s so good at this,” she moaned.

“He is very talented,” Rosa agreed as she shuddered and brought her hand up to her mouth.

Fiala watched the dryad lick her finger clean and wondered what Rosa tasted like.

“I’d love to share with you,” Rosa said heatedly, her eyes glowing brightly, “but I’ve been forbidden to join you.”

“Doc, maybeeeee—!” Fiala began, but her word got garbled as Doc pushed her over the edge.

Doc didn’t stop. He increased his pace, able to chain Fiala from her first orgasm into a second. Slowing his pace, he brought her down gradually before kissing his way up her torso.

“Hmm, so good...” Fiala exhaled when she could think again. “Is it time?”

“Yes,” Doc replied as he planted a kiss on her lips.

The kiss was deep and passionate. Their tongues dueled as Doc shifted his hips and got his rigid cock lined up with her wet sex. Pushing forward slowly, Doc had to stop and start twice more before he could sink into her.

Their commingled moan was joined by a third as Rosa sank a finger into her aching pussy, mimicking what Doc was doing to Fiala. Doc took his time, his movements slow and controlled as he went from tip to base and back, over and over.

“Doc, please,” Fiala moaned during one of the breaks between kisses. “More.”

“As you wish,” Doc replied, rocking his hips a little faster.

“Ngh!” Rosa grunted as she pulled her hand away from her sex. “So close…!”

Fiala looked to the side and Rosa panting and trembling with need. Her emerald eyes were glowing as she stared at the two of them. The two women locked eyes, and Rosa smiled as she sank into Fiala’s thoughts.

“Yes, Fiala! Yes to all of it,” Rosa moaned as her hand went back to her dripping sex. “Gladly.”

Fiala shuddered as she came, the idea of the dryad joining her and Doc pushing her over the edge. “More!” Fiala moaned as she orgasmed.

Doc did as she asked, taking her faster and harder. Fiala cried out in heightened pleasure and dug her fingers into his back. Doc inhaled sharply as Fiala clawed at him, but that only made him fuck her harder. Fiala let out a wordless cry as she crashed from orgasm to orgasm. Doc grunted as he felt his cock begin to pulse. With a few last frantic thrusts, he came, spilling all of his seed into Fiala.

Fiala slumped against the bedroll, her eyes mostly closed as she gasped and shuddered from the aftershocks of her orgasms rippling through her. Doc exhaled heavily, his own orgasm hard, but he managed to push himself onto his knees and free of her.

“Doc... please! I need it!” Rosa begged, her voice nearly frantic.

Seeing the dryad writhing on the ground, her hand thrusting into her sex with abandon, Doc smiled darkly. “Stop. Crawl over here and clean us up, weed.”

Rosa shuddered as she pulled her hand free of her needy sex. Rolling onto her belly, she pushed herself to her hands and knees and crawled to him, her eyes glowing points.

When she got close, Doc grabbed her hair roughly and forced her head down. Rosa let out a muffled moan as she took his softening cock into her mouth. Her tongue circled his flesh, trying to gather all of his cum as he forced her up and down his now hardening cock.

“Clean it all up, weed. Once I’m clean, you’re going to suck as much of it out of her as you can. Secondhand is all you get tonight.”

Rosa groaned, but her mind was floating in a hazy cloud of bliss. When he pulled her from his cock, she whimpered until she was pushed into Fiala’s pussy. With clear eagerness, she licked, lapped, and sucked at the wet semen-filled sex before her.

Doc grinned as he held her in place and shifted to get behind the submissive dryad. With no warning, he got the tip of his cock into her before slamming his hips forward, hard. He stifled his own moan as he felt her silken, tight passage take every inch of him.

Rosa tried to lift her head, but Doc held her down. Her moans of need were muffled, but she was clearly still doing what Doc told her to do.

“Don’t stop, weed,” Doc commanded as he stayed sunk into her. “I’m going to move my hand. If you stop or move away from her, I’ll stop and give you nothing else until the next time I leave the town.”

Rosa’s hazy mind heard the words, and their meaning sunk deep into her: she must clean and love the woman under her tongue. That’s what the Voice demanded of her. Fiala was her world, the only thing besides Doc that mattered at that moment.

Doc steadied her with a hand on her hip, releasing her hair and pulling himself all the way back to the tip. His free hand came down hard, leaving a dark handprint on her firm ass. Rosa didn’t flinch at all, though her hips wiggled slightly side to side. Doc laughed and spanked her again, harder, his own hand stinging from the impact.

Fiala was drifting, pleasure racing through her, as she felt a tongue licking at her with a fervor she’d never experienced. Forcing her eyes open, she was only half aware that Rosa was the one pleasuring her while Doc spanked the eager dryad.

“Doc… more,” Fiala murmured. “She needs more.” Eyebrows rising at Fiala’s words, Doc wondered what she meant until she said, “Blood… a little.”

“Weed, you may sip gently at Fiala. Do not harm her any more than you absolutely must. You are to also give me your tendrils against my thighs.”

Rosa heard the words, her mind in a daze as she surrendered to Doc, Fiala’s words dimly impinging on her. She pushed tendrils into Doc as she had before, and his sweet warmth filling her made her orgasm. As she rode that wave, a single thin tendril extended, piercing Fiala and finding a vein. The secondary warmth and life essence she was getting made her orgasm again as both of them gave her life.

~*~*~

Doc exhaled shakily as he drew the blanket over the three of them. Rosa and Fiala were entwined in a loving embrace, sleeping soundly. Doc had made sure Fiala was healed completely before he’d seen to himself.

Exhausted, depleted of energy, and still a little injured, Doc snuggled in behind Fiala, his hand resting on Rosa’s hip. Well, that was different... I wonder how Fiala will feel in the morning? She seemed to enjoy it... hell, she was the one asking for me to do different things to Rosa. Maybe this will work out, after all?

~*~*~

Doc shuddered as two mouths worked on his hard cock. Looking down, he saw both Fiala and Rosa licking at his rigid shaft. “Morning?”

“Morning,” Fiala smiled broadly. “Rosa was telling me the things you liked the most. Now that you’re awake, you can tell me.”

Rosa pulled back, her eyes gleaming. “I hope you don’t mind, Doc. She found me helping myself to you this morning and wanted some, too. I thought it best to help her please you better.”

Doc was about to respond when Fiala engulfed his straining flesh. Inhaling deeply, eyelids twitching, Doc moaned. Fiala’s eyes widened when she heard him and felt him growing even more firm in her mouth. Doc’s toes began to curl as Fiala worked her mouth up and down his length.

“Oh... g-gods,” Doc stuttered. “Fuck!”

“She’s doing it right,” Rosa panted. “Yes... good girl, Fiala. Now, take him all the way down. Remember, tuck your thumb into your hand and squeeze. See? Now you can do it. Here, let me reward you, but don’t get too distracted, little flower.”

Doc lifted his head far enough to see Rosa move behind Fiala, laying on her back and sliding under the other woman. Fiala’s technique faltered, and Doc started to catch his breath.

“You’re failing to please him like you should, dear flower,” Rosa giggled. “Is the weed too much for such a pretty one to handle?”

Fiala moaned and pushed her dripping sex into Rosa’s mouth to silence her, and then began to rapidly bob her head. That sudden switch in gears caught Doc by surprise and his tentative control vanished as if it never was.

Hands grabbing Fiala’s head, Doc wasn’t fully aware of his actions as he fucked her face in earnest, and his whole body began to shake. Fiala let out a deep moan from the attention of the tongue on her sex, and Doc, losing control, pushed her over the edge. Rosa moaned into Fiala’s slit as she rode the pleasure wave from both of her lovers, then orgasmed herself.

Letting go of Fiala’s head, Doc slumped back, random shudders still coursing through him. Fiala gasped as she came free of his grip and pulled her head up, allowing her to get air again. She shuddered again as Rosa pulled herself out from under her, allowing Rosa to catch her breath, as well.

“Best... morning... ever...” Doc mumbled happily.

Chapter Twenty-five

Doc and Fiala shared a smile as they rode closer to town. Fiala had come to terms with Doc’s personality with Rosa and how much the dryad clearly wanted to be dominated and controlled by him. Doc was still replaying some moments in his mind— not just because the sex was amazing, but because Rosa had surprised him by focusing on helping Fiala pleasure him more than she did trying to get time with him.

“Doc, I love you,” Fiala said out of nowhere.

A smile blossomed on his face. “Love you, too. What brought that on?”

“The last couple of days have just made me love you even more.”

“I’m not complaining about being loved more,” Doc replied. “Just confused about the why.”

Fiala fell silent for a few minutes. “You give so much of yourself to those you care about. Even with Rosa beside us for both days, I never felt neglected or in the way. I was worried about her and the stories, but she’s special. She loves you as much as I do, and I think that love is what makes her special. Just as my love of you helped me want to be a lady to stand beside you, I think it makes her want to be better, too.”

“I didn’t think my love was powerful enough to change you both,” Doc chuckled.

“To us, it is. Well, to us and Sonya,” Fiala said softly. “I did talk with Rosa, and she agreed with me. If Sonya is truthful in her feelings, we should let her in. I just don’t know how to verify that, short of her going to speak with Rosa.”

“Hmm...” Doc murmured, recalling Henrick’s smoke that made him speak truthfully. “There might be a way, but she’ll have to agree to it.”

“What is it?” Fiala asked. “I can ask her about it.”

“Henrick has an incense that compels a person to speak truthfully,” Doc said. “She tried to use it on me once. Apologized profusely when she realized what I was, and we’ve since come to an understanding.”

“Okay, I’ll ask her.”

“How do you feel on the horse?” Doc asked. “Between Rosa and going slow, it’s taken us longer to get back. Missed the weekly tournament starting.”

“I hope that Lia isn’t too mad at me for that,” Fiala said.

“She knew you were coming with me and that things happen. I’m sure she’s fine.”

“I need more practice riding. My horse is just following yours more than me actually doing anything.”

“We’ll get it taken care of. For you and Sonya, and likely Ayla, as well.”

Fiala glanced sideways at Doc, but he didn’t notice. “Yes, the three of us should know how to ride for you.”

“Once we get to the stables, I’ll handle the horses. You can head back to the Lily and get things ready for a bath. It’ll be nice to get all the grime off and not just off the important parts.”

“Agreed,” Fiala said.

~*~*~

“Hmm, it seems both horses are in… perfect health?” the clerk at the stable said questioningly, looking over the report from the stablemaster.

“So I can get the most back for them, right?” Doc asked.

“Of course,” he said slowly, still looking at the report.

“Can you apply the money to the storage I’m renting?”

Shaking his head, the clerk looked up. “Um, yes. Of course, sir. All of it?”

“I’ll get the balance when I stop using the storage.”

“Sure,” the clerk said, making notes on his paperwork and handing Doc the receipt. “There you go.”

Doc looked at the receipt, saying he had three months of storage paid up. “Thank you.”

“Our pleasure, sir,” the clerk said.

Doc left the livery behind, and the moment he left, the clerk went into the yard to find the stablemaster.

“Holyday,” one of the deputies said from the next corner, “welcome back.”

“Thanks. Still my shadow?”

“Yes. I’ve heard the church is upset.”

“Not surprised.”

“Someone opened up a house of worship and has a license to be a spirit healer,” Spot said. “Adam is not happy. Grange is unhappy. Unhappiness spreads quickly.”

“Knew it would start, eventually,” Doc said.

“Goodman is upset, too,” Spot grinned. “Someone took all the funds from the bank, and the bank still owes them. He had to send for a special delivery from the capital.”

Doc chuckled. “Poor man. How sad for him.”

“You’re making enemies fast.”

“I’ll just have to make friends faster,” Doc replied. “How’s the job?”

Spot barked a low laugh. “I’ll be watching you.”

Doc shrugged. “Offer’s still open, and we’ll need the help soon.”

“With the way the Beavertons are working, I’d say so,” Spot replied as he took a few steps back into the alley.

Doc gave the deputy a nod and started walking again.

He had just about reached the Lily when a body came flying out the doors. Stopping, he watched the man roll, ending up inches away from a pile of horse dung.

“That was almost bad,” Doc said.

“Fucking mutt!” the man snarled and tried to stand up. That action ended up differently than the man imagined— his hand landed square in the pile of excrement, and his upward momentum ended when his hand shot out to the side, sending him face first into the pile.

Doc grimaced. He felt a little sympathy for the man who just ate shit, but not too much, considering his words just beforehand. “You might want to find a place to clean up,” Doc suggested.

The man, spitting and gagging as he staggered to his feet, glared at Doc before he went shambling off down the street.

“Interesting welcome,” Doc muttered and peeked into the doorway. The tables were full and the games lively. Fido was walking back to the bar, having made sure the man wasn’t coming back in.

Entering the Lily, Doc grinned at Heather’s back. She was playing a jaunty song that was similar, but different, to the one he’d shown her before he left. Cassia’s smile widened when she saw him and waved. Doc gave her a smile and nod as he headed for the door to the back hallway.

The song came to an end just before Doc reached the doorway. “Doc, welcome back,” Heather called to him. “Maybe a song or two soon?”

“No promises, but hopefully,” Doc told her before pushing into the back.

“Welcome back, Doc,” Posy said from the kitchen doorway. “I’ll get your clothes when you’re done. Fiala already got clean ones for you both.”

“Thank you, Posy. You been good?”

“Yes. I’ve been studying hard.”

“Oh?”

“Posy wants to be able to help you when she grows up,” Daf said from behind her daughter. “She’s focused on her numbers, but has also been working on her reading and writing, too.”

Doc smiled. “That’s good. I’ll have to test you later.”

Posy stood up straight. “I’ll be ready.”

Daf shook her head, a broad smile on her face. “Come on, Posy. He needs to clean up.”

“Yes, Momma.”

Turning away from them, he’d almost made it to the bathroom doors when Lia stepped into the hall from her room. “Welcome back, Doc. Did everything go okay?”

“Went fine. The mine is good, better than, and there wasn’t any trouble.”

“I had wondered. I half expected you to be back for the tournament,” Lia said.

“Fiala and Rosa met,” Doc said. “Luckily, they get along.”

“Lucky, indeed,” Lia laughed lightly. “I’m glad to hear they didn’t have trouble. I’ll talk with you after you get the chance to clean up. Over dinner, perhaps?”

“Good idea. Can you send word to Ayla for me?”

“I’ll make sure she’s told, but I expect her to be here tonight like she was last night.”

“Okay. See you in a bit.”

“Of course. I would ask that you keep the… play… to a minimum in the bathrooms. They aren’t that soundproof.”

Doc coughed, thinking about how hard he and Fiala had bent the rule about no sex in the bathrooms before. “Yeah, uh... sorry about that.”

Lia merely smiled as she stepped back into her bedroom.

~*~*~

The bath had been relaxing and refreshing. When Doc told Fiala what Lia had said, she blushed.

Done bathing and dressed, the two left the bathroom to find Posy coming their way. “Finished?” she asked.

“Clothes are in the hamper,” Doc told her. “Thank you, Posy.”

Posy smiled broadly as she bounced past them to collect their dirty clothes.

“What do you plan to do until dinner?” Fiala asked Doc.

“I was thinking of checking on Sigmund. Maybe I can talk him into coming over here so I can heal him a little more.”

“He’s weird, but he does seem nice, if fixated on hats.”

“What about you?” Doc asked.

“I’m going to go talk with Sonya,” Fiala said. “If she agrees, we’ll go speak with Henrick.”

“Moving fast,” Doc said as he pulled her into his arms. “Are you sure?”

Fiala rested her head against him. “Yes. Rosa helped me see that sharing you can be beneficial to all of us.” She turned red, and her words became a whisper, “And seeing you with Rosa was very erotic.”

“I agree. Watching the two of you together was captivating,” Doc murmured. “If you’re sure about Sonya, I’ll ask her tonight. That means I have another couple of places to stop by to get things in order.”

“If she comes with me to dinner, the answer is yes,” Fiala said.

“I’ll be ready to see you both or to be sad that she wasn’t what I thought.”

Fiala put a hand behind his head and pulled his lips to hers. Their kiss was soft, gentle, and loving— nearly the complete opposite of their last couple of days, when passion and need dominated them.

“See you tonight,” Fiala said when the kiss broke.

Doc smiled as she walked away, watching her tail twitch from side to side with each step.

Chapter Twenty-six

“Excuse me?” Doc asked as he entered the clerk’s office.

Elta looked up, her eyes red and with her handkerchief in hand. “Yes?”

“I’m sorry, are you okay?” Doc asked, shutting the door and going to the counter.

Seeing who it was, the clerk sniffled, trying to hold her emotions in check. “No... My husband passed away yesterday. Adrian took a sudden downturn the day you got married, and his health rapidly diminished day after day. I went to find you nearly a week ago, but you’d left town. My daughter and I checked every day to see if you’d come back, but you hadn’t.”

“I’m sorry to hear of your loss,” Doc said softly, feeling a little guilty that he’d delayed so long with Rosa now.

“McIan said he died because Apoc turned away from him...” Elta sobbed, “because he was foolish enough to trust a spirit healer...”

“Elta,” Doc said gently, “your husband was healed. Completely healed. After I helped him, he got better, didn’t he?”

“Yes, but why did he die, then?” Elta asked, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“His body? Where is it?” Doc asked.

“The undertaker has it, preparing him for burial tomorrow.”

“Do I have your permission to see if I can find out why he died?”

She blinked at him slowly. “Can you?”

“I honestly don’t know, but I can try.”

Swallowing, she nodded. “Please? Take Sophia with you. This way, you’ll be allowed to see him.”

“Okay. I do need one more thing, and I’m sorry for the timing, but can I have the paperwork for filing a marriage?”

Sniffling, Elta walked away and got him a few pieces of paper. “Here... but you just got married.”

“Probably be marrying again, soon,” Doc said. “Thank you.”

Taking the papers, Doc left Elta and went down the hall to records. Taking a deep breath, he opened the door and saw that the office was empty. It was silent, except for the soft sound of muffled sobs.

“Sophia?” Doc called out to her as he shut the door.

A quick scrabbling came from the far side of the room, and a moment later, a watery-eyed Sophia came into view. “Can I… why? Why did he die?” Sophia’s question faded and she asked another when she saw him.

“I don’t know,” Doc told her gently. “Your mother said I could see his body to see if I can find out why, but that I need you to go with me.”

“He’d been doing so much better,” Sophia said as she dabbed at her eyes. “Then he got worse, much worse, and you weren’t there. You weren’t here to help him...”

“I was out of town,” Doc said. “If I’d known, I would’ve come back sooner. If I had, though, do you think he would’ve let me heal him?”

Sophia began to sob again, leaning on the counter. “No… He hated you. ‘Abomination.’ ‘Liar.’ ‘False-god lover.’ He kept saying that... until the very end. The preacher couldn’t help him... Whittaker, either.”

“I’m sorry for your loss, Sophia, yours and your mother’s. Will you come with me?”

“Yes. I need to put up the sign.”

“I’ll wait for you out front.”

“Okay.”

It didn’t take her long to join Doc on the porch. Sophia had mostly composed herself, though it was still very obvious that she’d been crying. The undertaker was only a few yards away, on the other side of the gallows. A single noose was swaying slightly in the light breeze.

Stepping into the undertaker’s, Doc was surprised by the lack of pungent chemicals that he expected. The front room displayed three coffins; one of plain, rough wood; one made from polished oak with metal handles; and an ornate one with silver inlay and silk-lining.

“Digger? Are you in?” Sophia called out.

“A moment,” the undertaker replied from a back room.

It took a minute before the tall, gaunt man came into the room. Doc wondered about the man, who looked like death warmed over. Sophia’s lips trembled and she sniffled, obviously trying to find words and failing.

“Sir, we’d like to see her father,” Doc said into the moment of silence.

“Unusual,” the undertaker replied. “Miss?”

Sophia nodded, her voice broken when she managed to speak, “Yes... please...”

“Very well. Follow me, but please understand I am working on him. This might not be what you want to see.”

Sophia didn’t move. “Mr. Holyday, not me. Thank you, Digger.”

Doc nodded to the undertaker. “After you, sir.”

Digger gave Doc a long look before he turned and walked toward the back, ducking to get under the door jamb. Doc followed him into the back room, which was more in line with what he expected from an undertaker. There were slabs on the edges of the room, and one was currently occupied with Adrian’s body.

What took Doc a little by surprise were the buckets and tubing. The undertaker moved over to the corpse and began fiddling with tubing again. A moment later, dark fluid flowed down through it and into the bucket.

“Draining the blood?” Doc asked.

“Easiest way to keep the body fresher longer,” the undertaker intoned.

“Excuse me if the question is indelicate, but Sophia called you Digger?”

“My family name,” Digger said. “It’s also my family’s occupation, as happens so often for people. Yours is Holyday, but you don’t appear to be a preacher of Apoc.”

“I’m not. Do you mind if I look him over?”

“Feel free. Unless you’ve dealt with bodies before, though, I don’t know what you could possibly find.”

“Let’s find out,” Doc said, taking his jacket off and draping it over the only chair in the room. Unbuttoning his sleeves, Doc rolled them up and walked over to stand beside the tall man.

Adrian’s body was pale with most of his blood drained out. Doc took a moment to just look over the body— a number of cuts had been made where Digger had been working to extract the blood.

“Only your wounds on the body?”

“He wasn’t murdered,” Digger said. “No obvious wounds that I noticed when dressing the body.”

Doc frowned and he reached out to touch the corpse. Ice, was the first thought that touched Doc’s mind. The body has been sitting in here and it’s cool, but not this cold. This coldness reminds me of the se’sxac.

Taking a deep breath, Doc triggered healing hands, ignoring the sudden, sharp indrawn breath from Digger. The body didn’t respond to the energy, as it was dead, but that didn’t mean the body didn’t react at all. The Darkness rushed up, slamming into Doc’s consciousness.

God-touched fool. You idiot. Your death will come soon unless you join us. We can save you and raise you higher. The image of Doc sitting behind a wide desk appeared to him. His lovers were standing behind him with wide smiles while a man addressed him as Governor Holyday. See what you could be? Powerful, with all your women behind you, and able to decide the fates of many. We can even give you your pet. The view shifted and Doc caught sight of Rosa under the desk, working her mouth on his shaft.

Doc gritted his teeth as he pushed with his energy. The iciness of the body dimmed under his hand and the voice cut off. Fuck you and your empty promises. The body grew warmer, and Doc felt the presence vanish. Taking a deep breath, he shut down his magic.

“What was that?” Digger asked.

“Faith,” Doc replied. What do I tell his wife and daughter? That the church killed him? I can’t imagine that going well.

“The preacher will not take kindly to that,” Digger said.

Doc looked up at Digger and couldn’t get a read off the expressionless man. “We were never going to be friends. Diametrically opposed views.”

Digger let out a dry laugh. “Yes. That will bring more business for me.”

“Probably right,” Doc agreed. “Are you not an Apoc-fearing man, Digger?”

“My family crossed the church ten generations ago. We are now cursed, but we accepted that and found a way to make it work for us.” Digger gave Doc a flat stare. “If anyone could upset them and make it stick, I wouldn’t be terribly upset.”

“Good to know. What curse?”

“Unless you can absolutely cure it, I’d rather not say.”

Doc thought about his status and checked his faith. It had gone up, but not enough to let him look beyond his current cleansing. “When I can, I’ll let you know.”

“That means you have to survive. I won’t hold my breath.”

“Fair enough. Thank you for letting me in to see him.”

“The family asked.”

“Do you have any soap?” Doc asked.

“Soap? I’m not a doctor. I’m an undertaker.”

“Everyone should wash their hands more often,” Doc said. “Any high-proof alcohol?”

“Top shelf, green bottle,” Digger said, pointing to a bunch of shelves.

Doc went to the shelf and pulled down the single green bottle. Popping the cork off, Doc caught the scent of alcohol, and his eyes watered. Coughing, he held the bottle away from him. “What is that?”

“I didn’t ask. All I know is that it burns going down.”

“Might blind you,” Doc said. “Don’t drink a lot of it.” He splashed a little into his left hand and set the bottle down, quickly rubbing it over his hands.

Digger raised a single eyebrow. “Wasteful.”

“Best use for this, I think,” Doc said as he recorked the bottle and put it back.

“If you’re done using my drink for your hands, you can go.”

“Have a good day,” Doc said, buttoning his sleeves back up.

Picking his jacket off the chair, Doc tried to think of how to explain what he had found, wondering if Sophia would even believe him.

Sophia was wiping her eyes when Doc came back into the front room. “Did you find anything?”

Doc went with his gut. “Yes, but I’m not sure if you’ll believe me. I can’t prove it to you.”

Sophia sniffled and gave Doc a resolute look. “Tell me, please?”

“The church killed him. They sickened his soul. I’m sure they’ll try to blame me for it, but that’s what I found.”

Sophia’s face hardened when he told her and her jaw clenched. “He believed in them... for years, he believed.” Her hands balled into tight fists, and her voice became hot with anger, “And this is what they do? Why?”

Doc took a slow breath. “Honestly, so they can try to lay his death at my feet. If they came to you earlier and said it was my fault, what would you have believed then?”

Sophia hesitated, her anger dimming some. “Oh... but he believed in Apoc. Why kill him? Why not just use him to implicate you breaking the law?”

“I don’t know,” Doc said. “I’m sorry. I only wanted to help.”

Sophia shook her head, her anger coming back. “No... This isn’t your fault. You healed him. He was looking better, able to eat, and he had the energy to get out of bed, but he wasn’t even grateful.” Sophia’s voice cracked and tears began to fall, “He yelled at me and Mother. Blamed us for listening to lies. He’d never have been able to yell without you, and yet he refused to believe in you, and continued to believe in Apoc.”

Doc swallowed, her raw emotion making him feel her pain. “Belief is hard. Leaving a long-held belief is even harder. I don’t blame him for doubting.”

“Your wedding!” Sophia said suddenly. “That was when he turned sickly.”

“Your mother mentioned that.”

“He came home with a new pamphlet from the church,” Sophia said hotly. “Maybe you cannot prove it, but I believe. I’ll talk to Mother. Thank you, Doc.” She stepped forward and held out her hand. “If I can do anything to hurt them, please do not hesitate. Come to me.”

Doc took her hand gently. “I won’t try to talk you out of what you want to do. I will say one thing, though: please don’t let it consume you. Your mother still loves you and needs you.”

Sophia gave him a strained, wet smile. “I know. I just want them to pay for what they’ve done to my father. Not helping him before and letting him suffer... and now, snuffing his life out like he was worth less than a bug.”

“He was loved by you and your mother,” Doc said. “A man can ask for nothing greater in life than to be loved back by those he loves.”

Sophia nodded, released his hand, and turned on her heel. Her clawed feet scored the wood as she marched out of the building.

Chapter Twenty-seven

Doc was still thinking about what he’d learned when he entered the only jewelry shop in town. The jingle of the door brought his focus back to what he was doing.

“Ah, a returning customer,” the rotund man smiled. “What can I do for you today, sir? Maybe a necklace for your wife?”

“Need a ring,” Doc said. “Gold band, diamond. Similar to the one I bought before.”

“Ah, a replacement,” the jeweler nodded. “I believe I have an identical one.”

Doc didn’t see the need to correct the man. “Do you have another six?”

“Six?” he asked in surprise.

“Yeah, six. I like to be prepared.”

“No. However, I can get them made. It will take me awhile to manage it, though.”

“Okay. I’ll take the one now and the other five when you have them done. How long?”

“A month.”

“Can you have them sent to the Lily as you finish them?”

“Of course, sir,” the jeweler smiled broadly. “Is that all you need?”

“No, I need one more,” Doc said. Looking at the display cases, he smiled. “What metal is that?”

“Ah, I brought that with me. It’s mythrium. Mr. Suez was admiring it just the other day. He’s one of the few who could afford it. The gems set in that piece are not common stones, either. They are pieces of soul stone that the soulsmith deemed unusable and were sold off at auction. It’s ready to hold an enchantment, not that anyone here in town can manage that.”

“Cost?” Doc asked, not looking up.

“For that ring? It’d run at least five hundred.”

“Five-twenty, if you include the other rings,” Doc said, pulling his eyes off the ring.

The jeweler looked at him with wide eyes before he started laughing. “Ah, very good. You nearly had me going.”

Doc frowned. “I’m serious.”

“I’ll agree if you pay upfront,” the jeweler said, clearly thinking he had stopped Doc’s foolishness.

“Okay,” Doc said, pulling out his checkbook.

The fat man waited with the air of someone who was getting tired of an old joke. When Doc handed him the check, he put it into the black box on the counter. A moment later, a receipt kicked out of the box and the jeweler grabbed it to check it.

“Uh... y-yes. One moment,” the jeweler stammered as he put the receipt in front of Doc and began to gather the two rings.

“Oh, and if you want mythrium, there’s a mine producing some, along with gold and other minerals. You should talk to the smelters.”

Placing the expensive ring into a velvet-lined box, the shopkeeper handed it to Doc. “I’ve heard rumors, but hadn’t thought they were real.”

“Real. I own the mine,” Doc said with a false smile. “Let Suez know that he can talk to me if he really wants the ring.”

“Yes, of course,” the man said slowly. “Umm... you’re still at the Lily, correct?”

“Should be. I have partial interest in it,” Doc said, taking the second box when it was offered to him. “Have a good day.”

Pocketing the ring boxes, Doc walked away from the shop. He’d gone a few feet before he noticed either Spot or Fido keeping pace with him from across the street. Doc gave the deputy a nod, and went to Sigmund’s shop.

~*~*~

Entering the milliner’s, Doc stepped aside and held the door for the older woman who was leaving. “Good day, ma’am,” Doc told her.

“Good day,” she replied. The heavy scent of roses nearly choked Doc when she went past him.

Doc held the door open a few seconds longer once she was gone, hoping it would diminish the smell. Closing it, he found Sigmund standing on the counter, watching him. “How are you today, Sigmund?”

“Good. Better. The hats talk a little less, but they’re still happy.”

“They might stop talking altogether once I get your blood cleansed completely.”

Sigmund nodded sadly. “Yes. Talking began when the world tilted.”

“How does it feel now?”

“Not level, but better,” Sigmund replied. “More healing?”

“If you don’t mind coming over to the Lily. You still love your hats, which is good.”

“Hats are still best. Yes. Healing, please?”

“Head on over and I’ll meet you there. I just thought of another stop I should make today.”

“Yes. Posy is there?”

“Of course.”

Sigmund rubbed at the side of his large nose. “Giving her hat, okay?”

“A new hat?” Doc asked.

“Wait,” Sigmund ran into the back.

Doc waited for the gnome to come back.

“Here,” Sigmund said, coming out of the back at speed.

Doc looked at the small bonnet, decorated with ribbons and artificial flowers. “She’ll love it,” Doc said, “but I can’t let you give it to her.”

Sigmund had puffed up with pride at the first part, but slumped when Doc continued. “Yes. Too much gift?”

“Yes. I’ll buy it, instead,” Doc said. “Is that okay?”

Sigmund blinked, his head coming back up to look at Doc. “Yes?”

“Okay. How much?”

~*~*~

Doc still had a smile on his face when he entered Blackbeard’s. “Afternoon,” Doc greeted the dwarf.

“Holyday,” Blackbeard nodded, “back for more?”

“Similar, but different,” Doc said. “Considering how often I seem to get into trouble, I thought it would be wise to see about upgrading my weaponry.”

“Not a bad idea,” Blackbeard nodded. “Did you have something in mind?”

“A slightly higher caliber to start with, and engraved?”

“Of course. Did you have specific engravings you wanted?”

“I’m not even sure what can be engraved or enchanted,” Doc said.

“Enchanting is for things other than weapons,” Blackbeard said. “No one in town I know of can do that. Well, technically, I might be able to, but since I don’t have a license on that front, it’d be a stiff fine if I did.”

“Huh. What would you suggest for a pistol and rifle?”

“I’d go with a simple force engraving for the rifle. Turn it into something that can match an unengraved Express or surpass it. For the pistol, there are a lot of options that would be useful, depending on what you want or like.”

“Give me an example, please?”

“Caustic makes wounds harder to heal. There’s explosive, which is dangerous to everyone, but useful when faced against a large number. Stunning is good, and can still kill if the bullet hits. Even if you only graze the target, they lock up for a couple of seconds.”

“Stunning,” Doc said. “That’s more my style. I’ll take the force one for the rifle, too.”

“I can do that. Which set would you like?”

“Do you have a larger caliber for the Westchest 73 that shares ammo with a pistol?”

Blackbeard laughed. “Did you talk to the mail delivery?”

“No, why?” Doc asked.

“Just got in the latest Mustang line— the Mustang Wilds. It’s .44-40, which coincides with the Westchest 73’s original caliber. In fact, I’ve got two of the rare ‘One of One Thousand’ models in. They’re said to be more accurate. It’d take me three days to engrave them both.”

Doc’s lips twitched when he heard the ‘One of One Thousand’— there’d been a similar rifle back in his old world. “Three days it is. How much?”

“With the engraving? Normally, I’d say three-fifty, but since you’re part of the clan, three hundred.”

Doc whistled softly. “That much more expensive than the ones we talked about before?”

“The unengraved 73 cost me a hundred by itself. They’re going to be rare and only get more rare.”

“Yeah,” Doc nodded, recalling an auction of a similar rifle had fetched over two-hundred thousand. “I’m fairly sure I can cover it. I haven’t found out what I have in the bank since getting back.”

“You can pay me in three days if you can’t pay now,” Blackbeard said. “Clan helps clan.”

“Let’s write the check and see what happens,” Doc said.

Blackbeard took the check and put it into the black box. A moment later, the receipt kicked out and he handed it to Doc. “Three days. I can have them sent to you.”

“No, I’ll come get them. Can I sell my old guns back to you?”

Blackbeard grinned. “Of course.”

Doc laughed. “Hopefully at decent prices?”

“Mostly,” Blackbeard laughed.

~*~*~

Doc smiled at Fiala and Sonya when they entered the private dining room. “Ladies, things went well?”

“I hope so,” Sonya said. “I did as Fiala asked, but she said the final decision was yours.”

“She answered my questions at Henrick’s,” Fiala said. “She only wants to be beside you and help you.”

“Okay,” Doc said and he pulled out a small black box. “Sonya Redblade, will you join me and Fiala in marriage?”

Sonya’s eyes sparkled and she stepped forward. “Yes.”

Doc pulled the ring free of the box. “Then this is for you.”

Sonya held her hand out, and Doc slid the gold and diamond ring onto her finger. She was trembling as she held her hand up to look at the ring. “I’m not dreaming, right?”

Fiala giggled softly and touched Sonya’s shoulder. “No, you aren’t dreaming. Did you want to thank him?”

Sonya’s nostrils flared and she ran at Doc, hitting him in the chest hard and sending them tumbling, much like Fiala had when he proposed to her. Doc grunted from both the impact— which was hard, as Sonya wasn’t a soft woman— and from his lips being claimed with passion.

“Goodness,” Fiala said. “Is that what we looked like?”

Doc only vaguely heard her as he kissed the impassioned dwarf. It had been hot and forceful, but turned soft and sweet as Sonya slowed her assault to savor it. Doc was appreciative of her turning the kiss into something sensual, letting him learn what she liked.

Fiala stood off to the side, watching them with a small twinge of worry spiking in her heart. Her thoughts spiraled as she questioned if he would still want her now that he had Sonya. She was lost in the thought when Doc and Sonya stopped kissing.

“Fiala?” Doc asked, seeing her contracted brow, her bottom lip being chewed, and her hands clutching her dress tightly.

Blinking, she looked up to see him looking at her with concern and Sonya getting to her feet. “...Doc?”

“I felt a bit of jealousy and pain when you did the same with him,” Sonya said, moving over to put her arm around Fiala’s waist. “He still loves you. Don’t let your mind tell you otherwise.”

Doc picked the chair up as he got back to his feet. “Of course I do.” Taking a single step over to her, Doc pulled her gently into his arms and kissed her softly. “You are my wife. I will love you for as long as you let me do so, Fiala,” he said once their kiss ended.

Fiala’s face was crimson and she lowered her head to rest against his chest. “I’m sorry. I don’t know where that came from.”

“I’ll kiss you as often as you need to remind you of my love,” Doc said softly.

Fiala’s lips twitched. “Except for tomorrow. Tomorrow is Sonya’s day.”

Sonya put her arms around both of their waists. “It’ll be different and we’ll probably have moments of disagreement, but I wouldn’t want anything other than this.”

Fiala licked her lips, then bent and kissed the dwarf soundly. Sonya was surprised, but returned the kiss. Doc wondered if Luck had an inkling this was all going to happen when she sent him here.

“I… am intrigued,” Sonya said when the kiss broke. “I hadn’t considered us being intimate before… that kiss makes me want to explore that option.”

“Good. Doc will be happy with that.”

When both women looked his way, Doc gave them a smile. “Wouldn’t tell you not to, but it’s not mandatory. Rosa will be entirely thrilled if you are interested in that.”

“The dryad?” Sonya checked, and Doc nodded. “I’m a little afraid of meeting her, actually. Dryads have long been friends to the elves, but they’re not as friendly to dwarves.”

“She’s looking forward to meeting you,” Fiala said.

“Oh?”

“I thought about you a lot when I was near her,” Fiala explained. “She can read thoughts if she’s close enough.”

“Oh...” Sonya looked at Doc.

“I thought about you, too,” Doc admitted. “Rosa will be fine. She only wants to help me with my task. She’ll accept any who are also doing so.”

Sonya nodded and smoothed her dress. “I’ll do my best, Doc, Fiala.”

“It’s all I’ll ask,” Doc told her. He pulled some paperwork out of his back pocket. “We do need to fill these out for tomorrow.”

Sonya took a seat to Doc’s left. “We should get started, then.”

A knock on the door stopped them from going any further. Ayla opened the door and took in the scene. “Am I interrupting?”

“Not at all. Come on in,” Doc said. “Lia will be here soon, since we have things to discuss. Oh, and I spent some money.” He took the receipts and passed them to her when she sat across from him.

Ayla nodded as she took the receipts and put them into her folder. “I’ll balance them out later. As of right now, unless you tried to buy another piece of property, you shouldn’t have to worry.”

“No. The most expensive thing I bought was a ring,” Doc said, not thinking.

Fiala and Sonya both looked at the ring on Sonya’s finger, bringing it to Ayla’s attention. Ayla’s face went blank, but her brow furrowed after a second. “That isn’t that expensive, Doc.”

“Huh? Oh no, not that ring. That is the exact same as Fiala’s. I want them to be equal to each other. No, it was this one.” Doc pulled the other ring box from his jacket and set it on the table. “Five hundred dollars for that one.”

All three women blinked at the price, and Ayla opened the box gingerly. Eyes growing wide, she stared at it before Fiala cleared her throat. Ayla blinked at her, then turned the box so the others could see it.

“Mythrium?” Sonya said. “That would explain part of the cost. But the stones… soul stones?”

“Chips of them, yes,” Doc answered. “I was told it’s ready for enchanting, but no one in town knows how.”

“Enchanting the mythrium would be hard enough,” Sonya said. “The soul stones… I’m not sure anyone short of a soulsmith could work them.”

A knock announced Lia as she entered the room. “Good evening.”

“Evening, Lia,” Doc replied. “Do you know anyone who enchants, or can work on soul stones?”

Lia paused, her eyebrow raising as she went over to the table and took a seat beside Ayla. Turning the box around, she looked over the ring. “Expensive, and nearly impractical for anyone. The stones are used by soulsmiths, but can also be touched by the Mother. As for enchanting, any major city will have one or two who can do such. What were you thinking of enchanting it with?”

“Honestly, I have no idea,” Doc said. “Not sure what enchanting means for this world. I bought it because it felt right to do so.”

Lia took the ring out of the box and examined it closer. “A dozen chips? Interesting. For the enchantment, maybe healing, since your health is of the utmost importance to your wives and business.”

“True, and I wouldn’t have to rely as much on my own healing,” Doc nodded. “That’s all beyond what this meeting was for, though.”

Lia put the ring back in the box, snapped it shut, and slid it back to Doc. “Yes. This was to find out what happened at the mine and in town over the last few days.”

“Why don’t we start with town, then I’ll talk about the mine?” Doc offered.

“The money from the bank came in,” Ayla said, looking at the table, suddenly a little red in the face. “I let my emotions get the better of me and that might cause trouble. I’m sorry.”

“What happened?” Doc asked.

“I was at the bank the next morning to find out how much we were owed, and Friedrichsen had just given me the answer when Goodman came out of his office. He greeted me with... less than polite terms, but I ignored it and turned to deal with his new secretary. I needed to see how they were going to give us the money owed for such a large deposit of ore.”

“And...?” Doc prompted when she paused again.

“That… woman… wanted to argue about Friedrichsen’s assessment of the ore. Goodman took an interest at that point and took Friedrichsen’s report to read it. She was refusing to pay the owed amount, and Goodman started yelling at Friedrichsen, demanding to know how he’d cheated the test to make it look that pure, as it hadn’t been the last time.”

“Is he okay?”

Ayla held up a hand to forestall answering the question. “A lot of arguments occurred, and he said things one shouldn’t say to a woman.” Her cheeks reddened further and she glared at the table. “He even brought up… things… that he’d made me do, and laughed about how much better his new secretary is at it.”

“Asshole,” Doc growled.

“That’s when I snapped. I demanded payment in full,” Ayla said. “They tried to dispute it, but Friedrichsen is a fully licensed assayer, so they can’t dispute it legally. Goodman fired Friedrichsen on the spot and tried to claim that it was a false assessment. I threatened to take him to court, where I would explain all the troubles the bank has had. He was livid, but he backed down and asked if we could wait for a shipment to be made from the capital. I almost denied his request, but I allowed it. The rest of the money owed should be here in a couple of days.”

“I don’t find fault with you,” Doc said slowly. “I find even more fault with that asshole, Goodman, though. Do we know if Friedrichsen is going to be okay?”

“He said he’s going back to the clan for now.”

“Okay, that was a lot of news. How much do we have currently?”

“I’m not including costs already accounted for,” Ayla told him, “like the operating costs of the mine, the Beavertons, and such. With all of that excluded, the company is sitting on sixty thousand. You have twenty in your account, and the other hundred thousand should be here soon.”

Doc just blinked at her for a long moment, as did the others.

Shaking his head, Doc cleared his throat. “How about the business paperwork?”

“Done and ready to be signed,” Ayla said. “You just need to appoint the officers of each department and have them sign off.”

“You’re finance, I’m the CEO... who else do we need right now?”

“A lawyer,” Ayla said immediately. “We’re going to need someone who has law knowledge. An executive vice would be good, too.”

“Okay,” Doc said. “Get it started with you and me. I’ll see about someone versed in the law somehow. Leave the vice position open for now.”

“Yes,” Ayla said, her eyes going to the paperwork sitting next to Sonya. “Should I help get that completed and filed for you?”

“Oh, the marriage license. Please,” Doc said. “I would like to take Sonya to the courthouse tomorrow.”

Lia gave Sonya a look before nodding. “A good idea. Cement your ties with the clan before the real trouble begins. That, and the fact she is completely besotted with you is good, too.”

Sonya reddened a little. “He saved my life.”

“And blood debts must be paid,” Lia said. “I know. I’m not against your pairing. I’m for it, as I know what a dwarven woman who is committed to her husband can do.”

“Anything,” Sonya said, meeting Lia’s eyes.

Lia smiled. “Yes. With all our people have in common, it’s sad that we warred with each other as we did. If we’d only known what would come from that.”

“Anything else new in town?” Doc asked.

“We’ve had more people trying to cheat during the tournaments,” Lia said. “We’ve thrown them out without pause. The church has also been spreading word that seeing a faith healer can cause the soul to rot.”

“That could be tied with what I found out earlier today,” Doc sighed. “Let me tell you about the mine and what happened today.”

Chapter Twenty-eight

Doc exhaled a long shuddering breath as his body relaxed. “Fucking hell, Jasmine. That tongue is unique.”

Jasmine sat up, giving him a wink as she licked her lips clean. “I know. I just wanted to thank you for saving my life. Fiala said it’d be okay, but then you got married and left town, and are getting married again today. I’m glad Fiala said last night would be best. I would’ve felt increasingly awkward trying to do that when you had two wives.”

“Yeah, it’s going to be different,” Doc said, watching Jasmine as she got out of bed, her naked body on full display. “But like I said last night, you didn’t have to do that, not that I’m complaining.”

Jasmine gave him a smile over her shoulder as she pulled her dress on. “It’ll more than likely be the last time, sadly. A man with two wives has twice as much work to keep them satisfied, after all. With Lotus taking up any spare energy you might have, I’ll consign myself to remembering tonight.”

“Probably right,” Doc said, climbing out of the bed. “I’ve been curious, if you don't mind answering: how has it been? The change?”

Jasmine bent over to pull her boots on, and Doc admired the way her ass made the dress taut. “Good. It’s nice that I can make a good living just tending the bar now. I don’t have to take on customers I regret. I’m not completely off the market like some of the others, though. If a good man comes in, I’d consider giving him a good time. Someone like you or the marshal, for instance.”

“Wenn did seem like one of the good ones,” Doc said. “How is Cassia doing?”

“She’s doing okay. Sometimes she looks at the doors as if waiting for him to come back, though she knows that’s probably not going to ever happen.”

“Marshals don’t come around often?”

“Out here? I was surprised to see him at all. We must’ve been the closest town that had a judge.”

“He did act like he wanted to get rid of his catch,” Doc agreed as a knock came on the door. “Water,” he told Jasmine.

“Posy does love to dote on you,” Jasmine giggled, then her face turned serious. “She sees you as the father she wants. It’s going to be hard when you go...”

Doc nodded, his voice low, “I know. I can’t stay, though, and she can’t go with.”

“Don’t fret it,” Jasmine said. “Daf and the rest of us will look after her and make sure she gets raised right.”

Doc had a thought, and made a mental note to talk with Ayla about it. “Can you grab that, since you’re dressed?”

She gave him a long look, her eyes drifting south of his waist. “Of course, but with me being dressed, that might cause some problems.”

Doc laughed. “The water, please. I need to get ready.”

Jasmine sighed dramatically, but she had a smile on her face. “I guess, if that’s what you’d rather I grab.”

“You’re trouble,” Doc chuckled. “Some man will be very lucky when you pick him, though he’ll have his hands full.”

Jasmine gave him a sultry laugh and wink. “Glad you agree.” She cracked the door and set the water inside the room before slipping out with one last lascivious look at his naked form.

Doc shook his head and picked up the kettle. “Lady, some days I wonder... was this part of your grand plan? Hard for any man to not want to do what you asked when beautiful women are always there to keep him company.”

No answer came — not that he expected one— as he used the basin to clean himself up.

~*~*~

When he finished eating breakfast, Doc wondered if Fiala and Sonya were doing okay. Fiala had told him that she was going to stay with Sonya last night and help her get ready for the wedding before springing Jasmine on him. Fiala had given him a passionate kiss and told him to enjoy himself. He had, but now his mind went back to his lovely wife and his wife-to-be.

“Doc, are you here?” Otto asked as he opened the door.

“Morning, Dad,” Doc laughed.

Otto shook his head. “Not yet. Soon, though. I came to let you know the feast is prepared and ready for after the wedding. If it’s okay with you, the elders would like to announce you as shaman to the clan during the feast.”

“Faster than I thought.”

“They did tell you that if you married, they’d want you to take the mantle.”

“True. I need to know more about what being a shaman means.”

“Sonya’s taken it upon herself to read deep into shaman lore. I’m sure she’ll be able to aid you in this endeavor.”

“She’s determined to help me,” Doc smiled.

“You have no idea,” Otto said with a wry grin. “She’s at least as strong as her mother, but I’m thinking she’ll be even more unmovable.”

“I’m glad for that,” Doc said. “She’ll need to be a rock, for we’ll see storm and fire in the future.”

Otto nodded grimly. “Yes... You’ll do what you can to keep her safe?”

“Without question.”

Otto sighed. “I was sure, but…”

“It’s hard to see your little girl go off knowing that there will be danger at every turn.”

“Gods, yes. I know Luck has blessed you, but I worry still.”

“I understand a small bit, at least,” Doc said. “Marrying Fiala, and now Sonya, just makes me all the more determined to bring this world back from the brink. Luck has blessed me and I will use every scrap she gives to make life better for those I love.”

“Any man should do so, but we both know that so many don’t,” Otto said. “My initial impression of you was wrong, Doc. Thank you for being an honorable man, and thank you for giving my daughter her heart’s desire.”

“I’m glad you’re not going to cut my throat now. There was a time I worried about it,” Doc replied.

Otto shrugged. “Well, she’s my little girl.”

A knock on the door made both of them turn to look. It swung open to reveal Sonya, dressed in a cream-colored gown. She gave them both a bright smile. Fiala, who was behind her, also smiled widely.

“Father, Doc, I’m ready,” Sonya said.

Doc rose to his feet. “Then let’s not delay.”

~*~*~

The patrons quieted as Doc and Sonya led the small procession through the room. There were several questions being thrown around, but Doc ignored them all as he measured his steps to match Sonya’s shorter stride.

“At least more of us get to attend tonight,” Doc heard Lotus’ soft whisper to Fiala behind him. “Especially Lia.”

“We didn’t mean for it to go like it did before,” Fiala whispered back. “Mine was very spur of the moment.”

“I know,” Lotus replied. “I’m just sad. Sorry.”

“This doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with us still,” Fiala whispered to her.

“With you, maybe, but she won’t allow it.”

“We’ll have to see,” Fiala replied, “but I think she’ll allow more than you think.”

“Doc,” Sonya said softly, drawing his attention away from the conversation behind him, “thank you. I’ll do everything I can for you. I’ve even been studying shamanism to help you. If there is anything you need or want of me, just tell me.”

“I want you to be happy,” Doc told her. “That’s the first thing I want.”

Sonya’s eyes glittered and a soft smile formed on her lips. “You’ve already made me happy. When you accepted me during the Rite, my heart soared, but I worried it would come crashing back down. When you said Fiala would be the one who would have the final say, my hope dimmed.” She paused, trying not to let her tears fall. “Yet she knew what I felt and only feared I wouldn’t be as true to you as she is. When she told me there was a single test, my heart pounded harder than any other time in my life. I don’t know what I would do if I’d failed. When she told me what it was... my hope shined all the brighter.”

Sonya’s smile grew. “When she asked me questions, I answered truthfully. She honestly didn’t need the drugs to get me to do so, but it was to reassure her that I was being truthful. My answers shocked her, and I could see when she accepted me. When the drug wore off and she told me that I was going to be able to marry you, my whole soul sang with joy.”

“I… Sonya, all I ask is you get along with Fiala and whoever else joins us. If something bothers you, tell me. Communication, trust, and honesty: we must have all of them for this to work.”

“I will, Doc. Nothing will be kept from you. I will tell you everything and never lie.”

“You’re okay with leaving your family behind?”

“My family walks beside me and a few feet behind me as of today,” Sonya said. “Mother and Father will always be family, too, though they will be secondary. The clan will be tertiary, as it should be.”

“Interesting way of seeing things, but these are the things I need to be told.”

“And I will tell you everything I know, and learn more for you.”

Doc glanced at her from the corner of his eye. She walked along with her head held high and a bright smile on her face. She does look like she has won the lottery. Maybe this is all she really wants.

~*~*~

Grange came out of the courthouse when the group was approaching the stairs. “Holyday, what’s this?”

“A wedding,” Doc replied evenly.

Grange’s eyes went to Fiala behind Doc. “Didn’t you marry that one already?”

Doc looked over his shoulder and gave Fiala a smile before turning back to Grange. “Yes.”

“Then you can’t marry her!” Grange snapped, pointing to Sonya.

“Oh? Why not?” Doc asked.

“Because it’s against the law!” Grange growled.

“No, it’s not,” Ayla said. “The church doesn’t like it, but it’s not illegal. Besides, the clans have traditions for this going back for generations.”

Grange’s eyes locked on to Ayla’s, and his lips twisted. “I’ll let the judge explain it to you, then.” Stepping aside, he stared at them. “Go ahead.”

Doc didn’t bother to reply. Instead, he led the way into the courthouse with Sonya beside him. Reaching the clerk’s office, Ayla slipped inside as Doc paused. Elta came out a moment later, locking the door behind her and putting a sign up.

Grange frowned at them, following the procession. When Sophia joined them and locked up, his frown deepened. He was grinding his teeth as everyone filed into the courtroom.

“Ah, the wedd…” The judge trailed off when he saw the groom. “Mr. Holyday, I married you not that long ago, did I not?”

“To Fiala, yes, your honor.”

“Then why are you before me today?”

“To marry Sonya Redblade,” Doc replied.

“Hmm... I’m not sure I can allow that.”

“Your honor?” Ayla spoke up, raising her hand and getting a nod from the judge. “Why not? It isn’t against the law.”

“We have clear precedent of marriage being between one man and one woman,” Judge Bero said firmly.

“But it isn’t law,” Ayla said. “On top of the absence of a law, the dwarven clans have a history of marriage between multiple partners for generations.”

Bero stared at Ayla hard for a long moment. “Are you a lawyer or acquainted with the law, miss?”

“Business law,” Ayla answered, clearly hesitant about admitting it.

“Ah. So you are using conjecture and dwarven custom as your basis?”

“Your honor,” Sophia said, not stopping to get his approval, “there is no law forbidding it. There is only the church decree that marriage should be between a single man and woman. Some judges have upheld that view as law, but it isn’t actually law.”

Bero stared at Sophia. “Miss Sagesse, you know better than to interrupt the court.”

“I do, your honor,” Sophia said. “I apologize for doing so.”

“Good.”

“I just couldn’t stand by and see the law disregarded,” Sophia continued.

Bero’s nostrils flared. “One more outburst and I will hold you in contempt.”

“That is your right as judge,” Sophia replied. “I was just trying to make sure that the facts were stated clearly so you didn’t make a legal error, your honor. I know how you pride yourself on following the law.”

Bero stared at Sophia for what felt like a minute before he turned his attention to Doc and Sonya. “As I was saying, this is muddy ground. I will marry you, but it might be revoked by a higher court if it’s brought before them.”

Sonya cleared her throat lightly. “Your honor, if I may?”

“Miss Redblade,” Bero nodded slowly.

“Dwarven law is very clear on this topic: marriage can be between multiple partners if all of them agree to it. The three of us have agreed and will be having another ceremony in the clan hall after this. I know that dwarven customs are given lesser weight in court, but when law is absent, they are normally seen as an acceptable substitute.”

“And you’ve studied this in-depth, have you?” Bero asked, the condescension in his tone clear.

“I have. It’s important to the man I love and therefore, me,” Sonya said, ignoring him. “I can have the elders verify, if you’d like.”

Bero looked past her at the crowd and spotted the two elders he knew. “Two of them, at least.”

“All three,” Becker said. “Elder Redblade is the third seat now.” She motioned to Greta.

Bero’s lips thinned. “I see... Very well. Shall we proceed? Do you have the paperwork?”

Elta placed the paperwork before Bero, her face impassive. “Here it is, sir.”

The rest of the ceremony was handled with coldness by the judge, but Sonya ignored it. Her fervent wish was finally being granted, and all she felt was elation.

Chapter Twenty-nine

Doc walked side by side with his new bride on the way to the clan hall, his hand clasping hers. His mind was still on the troubles they’d had at the courthouse— he wasn’t sure if the judge was just biased because of the church, or if it was something more.

“Husband, why is your brow furrowed?” Fiala asked from his left.

Doc shook his head. “I apologize. I was thinking of something that shouldn’t intrude on our evening. Forgive me, Sonya.”

“Always, husband.” Sonya’s final word was full of happiness and love.

Doc gave her a smile. “Thank you, dear wife.”

Sonya’s smile grew wide and her eyes shone with happiness. “I like those words from you.”

“We both do,” Fiala nodded.

“Well, then, my darling wives, I will endeavor to make you both happy.”

Entering the clan hall feasting room, Doc led his wives to the head of the table and made sure they were seated before he took his own seat. He frowned when he realized he didn’t have a best man for the speech, as Otto was going to be doing the father’s speech. Looking at his side of the table, Otto was missing, but Lia was in his place.

“Lia,” Doc asked softly as the room began to fill, “can you take the best man speech?”

Lia gave Doc a raised eyebrow. “You think of me as your best… man?”

Doc rubbed at his face with one hand. “No, that’s not what I meant. I meant that you’re the closest I have to that here with me, and I’d—” Doc cut off when her soft hand covered his on the table.

“I was only teasing you, Doc,” Lia said, her lips trembling as she tried to contain her smile. “I will do so, but remember, you asked for this.”

Doc was about to ask what she meant when he realized who else was on his side of the table; Ayla and Sophia, who were conversing in soft voices. That distracted him just long enough for a chime to sound, and all eyes went to Becker.

“Clan, before the wedding feast, there is something that we need to tell all of you. As it touches on the wedding itself, with the newlyweds’ consent, we’ve all agreed now was the best time. The clans have long been without an important figure. They were wiped out between our wars with the elves and then, by the church, but today... today, we welcome back the first shaman any clan has had in quite a while. Shaman Holyday.”

Doc held up a hand as the crowd exploded in applause, acknowledging everyone looking his way.

Sonya covered his hand with hers. “It’ll be okay. I’m here to help you.”

Doc gave her a soft smile and nodded. “And that calms me.”

“Do not bother him tonight, as tonight is his wedding day, welcoming him fully into the clan. I’m sure he’ll be able to assist any who need it in the near future,” Becker said. “For now, onto the feast.”

~*~*~

The food was excellent once again, and Doc made sure to not stuff himself, though it was hard not to have just one more bite. Sonya ate less than she had last time, knowing she’d be moving a lot shortly.

As the meal drew to an end, Otto stood up, waiting patiently for everyone’s silent attention. “Clan and guests, we have another wedding to celebrate. This time, it is my own daughter. As any father, I worried about who she might find as a worthy partner. When she set her sights on Doc, I was angry to start with, even though he’d healed her and saved her life. How foolish and shortsighted of me.”

A chuckle went through the hall at his chagrin.

“He proved himself, time and again, to be a caring man of honor. Daughter,” Otto said, turning to face her squarely, “you knew better than I. You definitely have your mother’s intelligence and wisdom, along with her refusal to take ‘no’ for an answer.”

Another burst of laughter went through the room, making him pause again.

“I can never put into words my deepest apologies for trying to stop the mountain from spewing its fire, but I can say how proud I am of you. Not only did you know better than I, you knew better than any of us in the clan.”

Sonya beamed at her father before leaning over to kiss Doc’s cheek.

“I know your path will not be easy. I’ll worry my head off, but I know that Doc will do everything he can for you, as you will for him.” Raising his mug high, Otto turned to the room at large. “Let us raise a toast to our newlyweds— may they have many children to usher in a great age for us all.”

Doc raised his glass, but when Otto said the last bit, he’d been halfway to drinking and coughed hard on the ale. He hadn’t thought the toast would be about him having kids.

Fiala giggled and Sonya was quick to pat his back, earning more laughter from the crowd.

Once he had his breathing back to normal, Doc got to his feet slowly and felt every eye on him. “Father,” he started, staring at Otto, “thank you for thinking about your future grandchildren. I’m sure you won’t turn gray too fast once we start having them?”

The crowd laughed and started making comments about how Otto was already going gray. It wasn’t true, but it did make Otto look concerned.

“I need to thank Otto and Greta for their patience and understanding with me. You were there to help explain things to me and warn me about what I’d be facing. I had no idea what it meant to have a dwarven woman after you. When she decided I’d be hers, I quickly found out.”

More laughter filled the room, and mugs were raised and drunk.

Doc held up a hand with a grin on his face. “Okay, okay. Seriously, though, you raised an amazing daughter who has blessed me with her love.” He turned to face Sonya. “Sonya, thank you for being gentle in your pursuit of me. I know we’ll be good for each other— both of us can be stubborn when needed, though you’ll always likely have an edge in that category.”

Sonya laughed along with everyone else and picked up her mug when he raised his.

“To my new wife,” Doc said, his tone serious, “I will do everything I can to give you the love you want. We’ll face trials and tribulations, but with you and my other wife beside me, I know that everything will work out as long as we keep pressing forward.” He looked back to the crowd. “To the only one who can out-stubborn me— may she take pity on me at times and let me win occasionally.”

More laughter went with the crowd’s rousing agreement.

Sonya kissed him when he sat back down. The crowd was still loud, so she leaned in to speak into his ear, “You can win anytime you wish, dear. I’ll only go against you when it’s necessary for our safety.”

Doc smiled and kissed her again, getting some comments.

When they separated, Sonya stood up, her smile wide and joyous. “To our clan and guests, thank you for coming. I’d always hoped to marry a man who would understand me, and I have done so. Mother, Father, thank you for finally bending to my wish, not that you had any real choice in the matter.”

Laughter erupted, and many voices called out how difficult it was to handle a daughter who’d made up her mind.

“Let me tell you about our shaman and how much he cares, even for people he doesn’t yet know,” Sonya started. “I was dying... my blood was poisoned and my arm was broken. I mourned for the fact I would never know love, nor ever be able to raise a daughter of my own.”

“You’ll regret it if you have a daughter!” a random voice called out, and laughter followed.

“If she’s like me, perhaps,” Sonya agreed with a laugh. “As I was saying, I was consigning myself to death. I knew that even if Whittaker came, he’d probably fail to save me… when has he ever saved a non-human?”

“Never!” came a loud response from the crowd.

“While I was contemplating my own end, my mother came to me.” Sonya looked at Greta and smiled. “She told me there was a chance, but it meant trusting a stranger.” Her eyes went to Doc, and her whole stance softened. “When he entered the room... my heart sank. A human? What could he do to help me?” She gave him an apologetic smile. “I had no idea what he was capable of... I had no faith, but he changed that.”

The room grew quiet as everyone listened, leaning in to hear her better.

“He said a prayer to Lady Luck, and his hands blazed with green light. When he touched me… well, I had a religious experience.” Her lips trembled, fighting a laugh.

When the room laughed, she joined them and gave Doc a wink. She had to wait for the room to settle before she could speak again.

“His energy flowed into me and I felt tenderness.” Her voice was soft and trembling. “I hadn’t felt anything like it before, but now I know what it was… love. He gave of himself to help me— a crippled dwarf— and he did it without asking for anything. He didn’t stop when he’d cleansed my blood... no, that isn’t my husband. Explaining why my arm hurt still, he told me that it could be fixed, but that he needed faith.” Tears slipped from her eyes as she spoke on, “The price was high for him... he gave up his small energy reserve and taxed his body to finish healing me. When he fell over, I feared... feared I’d asked this precious man to heal me at the cost of his own life.”

Doc reached up and took her hands in his, and the crowd watched them in silence.

“I prayed with my very soul to Lady Luck to save him, even if it cost me my life again. This bright light couldn’t be snuffed out, not for me, not when he could push back the very darkness of death.” Her lips turned up again at the corners. “Luckily, I found out he’d just taxed himself into passing out, not to death. I rested his head on my lap and made up my mind at that moment: I would be his and I would fight anyone, everyone, to make sure I could care for him even one-millionth as much as he did for me in that moment. Little did I know, he’s nearly as stubborn as me. He made me chase him down and give concessions for his love.” She looked at Fiala. “I’d thought them a burdensome concession until I was able to know her. Now, I know even more joy and happiness.”

The crowd murmured, the affection between the women becoming clear.

Sonya took her hands back from Doc and raised her mug. “He might be our shaman, but he is my husband. More than that, he’s my light. I will keep him safe from anything and everything to see him shine all the brighter so others may know his light. Welcome him into our clan, and know that we are better than we have been in generations.”

The hall filled with thunderous agreement. Many of the guests got to their feet with their mugs raised as they drank to the toast. Lia winced at the sheer cacophony that filled the room. The room was still cheering when Doc leaned over and kissed Sonya, and it got louder again when Fiala did the same to her. The crowd was still buzzing when Fiala stood up a moment later, but they quickly quieted to hear what she had to say.

“Thank you all for coming to the feast. I’m overjoyed to welcome Sonya into our family, and I know that we’re better because of it. I’ll keep my speech short to not delay the dances too much longer. I still owe Sonya a dance, after all.”

There was some light laughter from the crowd as they remembered that dance.

“A small story is all: Sonya approached me to learn about Doc, having already locked her sights on him. That was my first time knowing what a dwarven woman would do for someone she loved, as well.” She paused as everyone laughed. “I was nearly bowled over by her determination. I knew my love of Doc burned brightly, but Sonya had a fire to match my own… I was a little afraid of her. As we talked, I learned that her love was capable of extending to anyone Doc loved. I was shocked— I hadn’t thought myself strong enough to do something similar. I soon learned that I could be her equal in that regard, and on even footing, we were able to accept each other.”

A murmur went through the crowd, but Fiala ignored them as she raised her mug. “Sonya, thank you. You showed me that love can be more than singular. Because of that, I was able to accept what life will be with Doc, you, and whoever else joins us. To the woman who burns so brightly, even mythrium will melt to her touch.”

Their guests drank, but many of them were having whispered discussions when the implications of the marriage sunk in for the clan. The conversations picked up when Fiala claimed another kiss from Sonya.

People thought the toasts were over, as no man other than Doc and Otto were sitting at the head table. When Lia stood up, silence took over the room as the guests gave her confused looks.

Lia gave the room a slow pan, making sure to look over everyone. “No doubt you’re all wondering what I am doing. Honestly, I’m as shocked as all of you, but Doc asked me to deliver his best man speech, and I agreed.”

Silence reigned and Lia gave the crowd a small shrug.

“Into uncharted territory, we both go.” Turning to Sonya, Lia gave the dwarven woman a long, appraising look. “Fit, tough, strong, and determined… you’ll need those traits, Sonya, to stand beside him. Please, take care of my dear friend Fiala, as well.”

Sonya smiled and raised her mug slightly to Lia. “Of course.”

“Now, a story about Doc,” Lia said with a smirk as she looked at him. “I did warn you that you might regret this— should I tell them about how you brazenly propositioned me after I sang on the stage? Many have, but I didn’t kick you out of my chambers like I do to everyone else.”

Murmurs sprang up and Lia’s eyes sparkled as she watched Doc shift uncomfortably.

“Or perhaps...” Lia looked sideways, her cheeks heated slightly, “how you saw me in my morning gown and had the audacity to compliment my looks?”

Doc started to speak up, but the crowd had grown loud and he gave Lia a pleading look. Lia’s eyes sparkled with laughter and she shook her head minutely, waiting for the crowd to settle down.

“No, neither of those are what I will tell,” Lia laughed lightly before her face became serious. “No... Instead, I will speak of a man who puts himself in harm’s way for others. Some call such men heroes. I’ll let you decide.”

The crowd went silent again, eager to hear her story.

“My establishment had a marshal staying in it not that long ago. The marshal is a good man, one of the few lawmen I’d share a drink with. He’d gone to court to see the outlaw he’d captured brought to justice. The marshal had no idea that his outlaw’s gang had come to free him... Doc had just purchased a gun from Blackbeard and was on his way back to the Lily when he noticed these men. He grew wary and hurried back to let the marshal know, only to find out that he was at court, the same place the gang had been going to. He didn’t hesitate— he sprinted out the door to help.”

The room was silent, the only sound the hush of people holding their breaths.

“The next part, I only know from secondhand accounts,” Lia said before launching into a tale of Doc’s actions she’d heard. “Wounded, but unbowed, Doc survived his brush with death, all to save a good man who he barely knew. A hero, by my standards.”

The room was still silent when Lia raised her mug. “To a good man, and a hero, who will surely stand up to anyone or thing, if it’s for the right reasons. I used to wonder where all the gods and the good men who championed them had gone. Maybe we weren’t worth saving anymore, but then you came. We can use a hero in this day and age.” Lia met Doc's eyes. “I hope you’re ready, hero, because there are going to be many fights ahead of you.”

A song danced through Doc’s mind, and he raised his mug back to her in the silence. “I’ll fight those rising odds.”

“To your friends and allies— may they stand beside you when needed,” Lia said, draining her mug in a single long gulp.

Doc raised his mug and tried to match her, but ended up choking and coughing. Sonya began pounding on his back and the crowd laughed as they drank to the toast.

Chapter Thirty

Doc kept an eye on Sonya when they got to the Lily. She’d been growing increasingly nervous as they walked. Doc could feel her hand growing clammy, but didn’t comment on it. He’d caught a number of comments from the crowd when they crossed the main room and went up the stairs, and none of them were gentlemanly.

Reaching Doc’s room, Sonya was breathing faster than normal, and her eyes were a little wide. She entered when he opened the door for her. Taking in the small space with its single bed, her face heated.

Doc closed the door and watched her jump at the sound. Instead of going over to her, he took a seat at the lone chair by the table. “Sonya, are you okay?”

Sonya took a deep breath and walked toward the bed. “Yes.” She paused before adding, “Nervous, though.”

“First time?” Doc asked gently.

“Of course,” Sonya replied. “I’ve talked with others, so I have an idea of what normally happens, but…”

“I understand,” Doc said. “Most of that is about to get set aside.”

Sonya turned to face him, staring at him. “Oh?”

“It’s your first time, and our wedding night,” Doc told her calmly. “I want it to be special for you, something for you to remember for all our years together. It’s going to be slower and more loving than you’re probably fearing.”

“No,” Sonya said quickly. “It’s not the speed that I fear. It’s… well, your… size.” Her face went redder at the last word. “You’re built like a human and they say humans are… much longer than a dwarf.”

Doc smiled at her. “Ah. Don’t worry. I’m sure it’s not as bad as you think. Before we even get to that, there’s so much more to experience.”

“But...” Sonya said, looking down, “what if I can’t please you?” She looked up with uncertainty. “All I want is for everything to be perfect for you.”

Doc met her eyes and his heart warmed. He knew Sonya might be just like him in one regard— wanting to pleasure their partner above even themselves. “You already are. Tonight is about you.” He held up a hand to stop her when she started to object. “Hang on. I’ll get plenty of pleasure, too, but tonight is for you. That’s what I want most of all.”

Sonya closed her eyes and took three deep breaths. Opening them again, the fear was gone. “If that’s what my husband desires most.”

Doc stood up and took a single step toward her. “It is, my beautiful bride.” Reaching her, one hand gently lifted her chin as he bent to kiss her.

Doc made sure the kiss was soft, tender, and loving. Ever so slowly, he let the kiss deepen and become more impassioned, trying to find out what she responded to. Sonya kissed him back, happy that they were together at this moment.

When Doc broke the kiss, Sonya’s face was even brighter red and she was breathing fast. “For the first part of tonight, I want to learn your body.” He could see the moment of worry cross her face. He kissed her softly and briefly. “No, don’t. I’ve seen you mostly naked already, Sonya. There’s nothing about you that isn’t beautiful.”

Sonya swallowed hard, staring into his steel-gray eyes. “That was one of the hardest things for me to do. I imagined all the things you would say... how disgusted you’d be. You didn’t say any of those things... you praised me as beautiful. How my heart sang at your words.”

“I try to only speak the truth to the people I care about,” Doc said. “If you’re uncomfortable, I’ll get naked first.”

“Together?” Sonya asked.

“That’s fine,” Doc said, stepping back.

It didn’t take long for the two of them to strip out of their clothing. Doc drank in the sight of her youthful body and offered a silent prayer to Luck. Sonya’s eyes roved over him until they latched onto his hardening member. Eyes growing wider, she watched him grow larger.

“Oh, Luck... preserve me...” Sonya whispered.

Doc chuckled. “She will, but calm down. First, I want to get to know you. Lay down on your stomach, please?”

Pulling her gaze from his naked body, she lay down on her stomach and wondered what he was going to do first. She didn’t expect the light, tender touch on her shoulders. Doc’s hand began to gently massage her muscles, easing her tension.

Sonya enjoyed the moment, smiling when his lips joined his hands in exploring her. When he asked her to roll over, she began to breathe a little faster, as she was now even more exposed to him.

“Shh...” Doc said softly, kissing her cheek. “You’re lovely.”

Sonya felt her nerves fade again, and she just smiled as he trailed a line of kisses down her cheek toward her neck. He added in light nibbles and took his time, trying to find where she enjoyed being touched the most.

When his lips grazed one of her nipples, Sonya inhaled sharply. Hearing her react, Doc gently rolled her other nipple with his thumb and lovingly suckled at the hard point in his mouth.

“Ohhh…!” Sonya moaned, her breath coming faster as her eyes closed.

Doc took his time, switching from breast to breast to give each attention. When he gave one nipple a testing nibble, Sonya let out a shuddering breath and her hips bucked. Smiling around her breasts, Doc lightly teased and pinched her other nipple.

“Luck... oh, Luck!” Sonya moaned, her hips moving on their own as pleasure washed through her.

Doc eased her back down before kissing down her body again. Sonya let out a soft whimper, her eyes fluttering open to look at him, full of questions unasked.

Doc lifted his head from just above her navel to answer her, “Just wait. I promise it’ll be worth it.”

Sonya nodded, lowering her head back to the pillow and breathing deeply. Her body was still tingling from the attention it had received. When Doc adjusted to lay between her legs, she raised her head again, clearly not understanding what he intended to do. She got the idea as he lowered his mouth toward her sex. She started to say something, but when his tongue lapped at her, she gasped, instead.

Doc smiled broadly at her reaction and took his time to explore her. She was moaning and her hips were moving with need by the time he decided it was time. Using his thumb to help clear the way, his tongue finally found her clit.

“Nugh!” Sonya gasped as her muscles locked up. Pleasure hit her like a hammer and she felt like heated copper as Doc continued to pleasure her.

Doc didn’t stop— he kept licking as her hips bucked into his mouth. Just as she started to calm again, Doc clamped down on her clit with his lips, gently, but firmly, massaging it.

Sonya’s eyes went wide and her hands grasped his head as she growled like a beast. Doc winced at the raw strength in her hands, but he didn’t relent. The sounds went up in pitch and her hands squeezed until she whimpered and went boneless. Gasping when she let go of him, Doc looked up to find her glazed eyes looking down at him.

“Now we can see about more,” Doc said softly. Shifting so he was kneeling between her thighs, his hard cock lay across her trimmed patch of black pubic hair. Bending down, he kissed her and felt her respond, though slowly.

Doc rocked his hips back, letting his cock slide down her body. Leaning into his left arm and using that to keep him above her, he made sure to guide himself to her entrance with his right.

Sonya was drifting on a warm, fluffy cloud when Doc kissed her. She’d never felt such pleasure, and wondered if she’d ever be able to give him even half as much in return. When his lips met hers, she did her best to return it, but she felt languid. That languidness was shattered when she felt him penetrate her. Gasping, Sonya whimpered, her hands grabbing at his shoulders as he pushed into her.

Doc paused, only having gone in a couple of inches. Sonya was tight, tighter than any woman he’d ever been with. “Are you okay?” Doc asked, staying still, now balanced on both his arms above her.

Sonya stared up at him. Her eyes were bright as the realization of what was happening hit her. “Yes, but you’re too big…” She swallowed as tears began to spill from her eyes. “I’m sorry…”

Doc felt his heart rend. “Sonya,” he said softly, making sure she met his eyes, “there’s no need for tears. I’m going to ease out, but that isn’t rejection. We can make this work. We’ll just have to go slower, okay?”

Sonya hiccupped, her body shaking as she sobbed silently. Doc’s eyes were filled with concern and love for her, and her heart wilted that she was unable to do what a wife should be able to for him. Why is he so calm and loving when I’m failing him? “W-we can’t even consummate our marriage...!”

Doc withdrew from her slowly until only the tip was still inside of her. Bending down, he kissed her cheek. “Shh, Sonya... relax. Trust me? Please?”

Sonya swallowed and tried to calm down, her heart in knots. “I do trust you... my life is yours,” Sonya sniffled as she took deep shuddering breaths, “but you’re too big.”

“Possibly,” Doc admitted, “but if you’re willing to walk the hard road with me and take all night, I’m certain we can come together.”

The idea of being one with Doc made her heart soar and ache at the same time. Part of her thought he was just placating her, but the rest of her gave in to his words. “Please…?”

Doc kissed her again and waited for her to calm down.

When Sonya finally stopped crying, she was watching him with hopeful eyes. Doc gave her a loving smile and kissed her gently. Sonya kissed him back, but Doc pulled back slightly, slowing her impassioned kiss and making her be slow, measured, and controlled. In time, the kiss deepened and Sonya felt her heart calm.

Doc will make it right, she told herself. Just trust in our husband, and he will make it work.

When the kiss started to become impassioned a second time, Doc changed it and kissed down her neck. Sonya exhaled and gave herself over to him. When his lips found her nipples again, Sonya gasped and let out a soft moan.

Doc was glad he’d managed to stay hard during her meltdown. He didn’t know how, but he wasn’t going to look a gift horse in the mouth. This time, he stayed still and worked on her nipples, bringing her pleasure again. He went from one to the other, slowly ramping up the attention until she was moaning and her hips were pushing up into his.

The first few times her hips rocked, Sonya’s breath caught. Her pleasure was nearly overwhelmed by the pain, but the pain quickly faded, and the pleasure seemed even greater for its absence.

Doc never moved his own hips as he pleasured his wife, but after a long while, Sonya was working him in and out of her all by herself, and Doc was in a place of heaven and hell. Sonya was nearly impossibly tight, but they’d worked so long on her that she was also a river of wetness, letting him move inside her.

Knowing he wasn’t going to last much longer, Doc lifted his head from her well-loved breasts and leaned back on his knees as Sonya continued to work her hips. “See, my dear wife?” Doc shuddered, his breathing a little uneven as he tried to make sure she realized what was happening. “We managed it.”

Sonya’s head was lost in a thick cloud of pleasure, but she looked at him towering above her and felt the hardness working itself in and out of her. “Doc... please make me yours,” she said in a daze.

Seeing her lost in the moment, Doc shuddered again. His toes started to curl and he touched her hips gently, slowing her pace. “As you wish, Sonya, but gently,” he said and pushed himself deep into her. Buried to the hilt, he groaned deeply as he felt the dam burst, finally free to orgasm.

That last push was enough to lift Sonya from her haze. She realized that he was buried completely inside her, but that moment was lost when she felt his cock swell, twitch, and pulse as he came. That pushed her over the edge and her legs clamped around his waist. Her whole body felt like it was on fire as pleasure unlike any she’d known before slammed into her.

Doc shuddered time and again as he rode out his own orgasm. Sonya’s legs tightening on his waist brought a big grin across his face, glad he’d gotten her there one more time. When her legs slipped free, Doc was done with his own orgasm, and he slowly pulled himself free from her.

With a last shuddering breath, he slumped onto the bed beside her, pulled the blanket over them, and held her as sleep came to claim him.

Chapter Thirty-one

Doc woke up with Sonya snuggled in against his chest. Her dark hair obscured most of her face, but that didn’t stop him from admiring her. Her arms were pulled together in front of her so they rested against his chest, and her chin was perched just above them. She looked so vulnerable at that moment, and Doc recalled her breakdown the night before.

Did I do the right thing for her? Maybe I should have stopped...? No, she’d have felt worse about that. Life is hard, even here, Doc thought, but we’ll do what we have to do— keep moving forward.

Sonya stirred slightly, murmuring, “Did I make you proud?”

“Yes,” Doc whispered, kissing her brow.

A smile brightened her sleepy face, but it faded and her brow furrowed. A moment later, her eyes twitched open and locked onto his steel-gray eyes.

“Good morning, my sleepy wife,” Doc whispered before kissing her brow again. “Did you sleep well?”

“Yes...?” Sonya asked as she started to slowly gain awareness.

“Did you enjoy last night?” Doc asked.

Eyes going wide, she stared into his as the memory flooded her mind. “I… you…!”

“I worried for you,” Doc said when she had trouble finding her words. “I don’t know if I did the right thing for you, Sonya. I just wanted to give you what you wanted. And it worked, after a while. We came together as one.”

Sonya leaned her head against his chest. “I failed you.”

“You can only fail by giving up,” Doc said softly. “Otherwise, you just have a setback. In the end, it was you who brought us together.”

“No, it was you,” Sonya said, her voice muffled.

“I didn’t move until the very end, when I couldn’t take anymore,” Doc corrected her gently. “From the moment we paused until I lost control, everything in between was you moving your hips to join us.”

Sonya frowned, and Doc could feel her forehead contract against his lightly-haired chest. “Did I...? I remember breaking down, and then you soothing me. You eventually lowered your mouth to my breasts again…”

“And as that pleasure built for you, your hips began to move of their own accord,” Doc whispered.

“I remember the small flares of pain before they were subsumed by pleasure,” Sonya replied. “Why did it feel like the pleasure grew more intense after that?”

“Mixing pleasure and pain is a kink for some. I’ve been told the sensation of pain helps heighten pleasure.”

“Kink?” Sonya asked, lifting her head to meet his eyes again.

“Sexual preference outside the norm,” Doc explained. “Rosa, the dryad, likes to be dominated and humiliated by me, for instance.”

“Oh?” Sonya whispered, her cheeks growing red. “Am I like her, then?”

Doc chuckled lightly and kissed her nose. “No. It’s very unlikely, but we can always experiment a little, if you’d like?”

Sonya’s cheeks heated and she gave his chest a light shove. “You’re teasing me.”

“A little,” Doc admitted, “but you’re smiling.”

Sonya’s smile grew a little wider. “I am. Maybe a little experimenting would be okay. I never got my chance to explore you like you did me.”

“That’s very true,” Doc murmured, leaning in to claim her lips with his.

~*~*~

Doc smiled at Jasmine when he came down the stairs. She gave him a knowing smirk back and motioned with her head to the door into the back hall. Doc gave her a thankful nod as he went that way.

Voices were coming from the private dining room, and Doc could hear them, as the door wasn’t completely shut. Lia, Fiala, Ayla, and someone else were all having a conversation.

“It’s all money to me,” the mystery person said. “Don’t care when we start.”

“Maybe I should just go check?” Fiala asked.

“Check on what?” Doc asked as he stepped into the room. Everyone turned to him, and Doc gave them an apologetic smile. “Me, I take it?”

“Sonya, actually,” Lia said. “Doc, this is Mrs. Zava Chruxia. I’ve arranged for her to teach your wives and Ayla how to ride.

Doc turned to look at her, noting the slightly-pointed ears that were not well hidden by her short, graying hair. Meeting Zava’s serious, brown eyes, Doc bowed his head to her. “A pleasure, ma’am. Thank you.”

Zava stared at him. “Can you ride?”

“I’m finding my way back into the saddle,” Doc said. “I’m serviceable, and have had to shoot from horseback before.”

Zava nodded slowly. “Fine. I hope you don’t end up being the one holding the others back.”

“Me, too,” Doc admitted as he went to sit. “Sorry for the delay.”

“I’m sure Daf will understand,” Lia said.

“Doc!” Posy said happily from behind him. “Breakfast? ...Lunch? Err...”

“Brunch,” Doc told her. “A meal that falls between the two and is had when someone misses breakfast.”

Posy nodded. “Brunch? Would you like brunch?”

“Please, but two? Sonya will be down shortly. Coffee to go with. We’ll need some wake-up juice.”

“Brains a little foggy?” Fiala asked with a small smile.

“A little bit,” Doc admitted. “Did I miss anything?”

“We’re just waiting for the last one,” Zava said as she leaned back in her chair.

“Money should be in tomorrow,” Ayla told him. “Everything else is normal.”

“You should take a look at what the Beavertons have done,” Lia said. “They’re really moving fast on this one.”

“After brunch, then,” Doc said.

“I do have something else to talk with you about. Maybe at dinner?” Ayla asked.

“I think that’ll be fine,” Doc said, looking at Fiala, who nodded.

“Okay,” Ayla smiled.

“Oh, a meeting?” Sonya asked as she entered the room. “Good morning to you all.”

“Definitely got the glow,” Zava laughed. “After you eat, you’ll be coming with me to learn how to ride.”

“Oh, right,” Sonya said, taking a seat beside Fiala. “Sorry for keeping you.”

“It’s fine,” Fiala said, covering Sonya’s hand with hers. “It was your wedding night, and I know how special that can be.”

“Breakfa… err… brunch,” Posy said, coming into the room with a cart.

~*~*~

Doc kissed his wives goodbye, getting a raised eyebrow from Zava as she led the group away. With them gone, it was just him and Lia in the room.

“What’re your plans for the day, Doc?” Lia asked, sipping at the tea she’d been served.

“Besides checking on how the Beavertons are doing, I have nothing else planned for today,” Doc said. “Tomorrow, I have to swing by Blackbeard’s shop to pick up my new guns. Money might come in then, too, which will make things move along. You?”

“I’ll go with you to see the work. I also have to talk with some potential workers. I was hoping you’d sit in with me.”

“Sure,” Doc replied. “I’m just glad this place isn’t the way it used to be, or else that’d get awkward.”

Lia laughed lightly. “It might have, indeed. I’d like to get your opinion on each person. I trust my judgement, but maybe you’ll spot something I don’t. None of them have experience as a dealer, so we’ll just have a small chat with each.”

“Sounds good,” Doc said, draining his coffee. “I’m ready when you are.”

Lia’s lips twitched, and she set her cup down before standing. Doc rose with her, and his eyes were drawn to Lia’s outfit. He’d thought she’d been wearing a dress, but he’d been wrong— a simple green button-up shirt, just loose enough to obscure her figure, covered her torso. Her pants were different today, too. They didn’t look painted on, but they were snug. Green-scaled cowboy boots covered her feet, and her belt was made of the same material.

“I’m ready,” Lia said.

Doc coughed and moved toward the door. “Let’s go see what they’ve done.”

~*~*~

The Beavertons were sitting in the big room, having lunch, when Doc found them. “Don’t mind us,” Doc said when they saw him. “Just came to see how things are going.”

“We’re just finishing up,” Urik said, getting to his feet. “I’ll show you around.”

Doc trailed the bestial as he led them through the first and second floors. Everything Doc had wanted was done. It was just the third-floor addition that was next, along with getting the two buildings joined together.

“You do damned good work. And fast, too,” Doc said.

“Thank you.”

“How long, do you think?”

“Three weeks and we’ll be done here. Then, a week for the Lily, if it’s closed for us to work in peace.”

“That’s it?” Doc asked.

“That’s all we need,” Urik said.

“It’s one of the reasons they cost,” Lia said. “Well, besides the fact that it will stand for a long time. The extra wood treatment?”

“We’re doing it as we go,” Ursula said, joining them now that she’d finished her lunch. “That’s why it’ll be a week at the Lily if we don’t have to fight over people. We’ll prioritize the kitchen first so you can make sure people are still being fed.”

“Thank you,” Lia nodded. “What do you think, Doc?”

“That I’m glad we went with you,” Doc said to the couple.

“We appreciate the work,” Ursula said. “We’d been getting a little nervous that no more work was coming our way.”

“I’m sure more can be arranged,” Doc said with a grin. “Are you okay with working away from town?”

Urik frowned. “What do you mean?”

“My foreman wants to build buildings at the mine, and I’d rather they be quality. You’d be the ones in charge of construction out there,” Doc said.

Urik and Ursula exchanged a look. “We’ll let you know once we finish this job,” Urik said after a moment. “Always make sure the job is done first.”

“Fair. I need Ayla to come up with the pricing, as it is,” Doc said with a rueful grin, “so I probably should’ve waited to ask. I’ll need to tell Rangvald, too.”

Urik laughed. “Probably a good idea to discuss it with the foreman first.”

“True enough. Thank you for the tour. We’ll get out of your hair,” Doc said, exchanging a handshake with Urik and giving Ursula a nod.

~*~*~

Doc was amused as he sat in the private dining room with Lia. How the hell has she found another ten attractive women to work here? The town isn’t even that big.

“I’m eager to work,” the half-dwarven woman was saying, “no matter what it is, besides selling my body.”

“We stopped that a few weeks ago,” Lia said. “Well, I should clarify that it’s at the discretion of each employee. The house takes no cut from such activities, as long as they don’t interfere with your job.”

The woman glanced at Doc. “What about him? He won’t be wanting special services, will he?”

“My wives take good enough care of me,” Doc said amiably. “How quick are you at learning new ideas?”

The woman frowned at the word “wives,” but her face cleared at his question. “Very fast.”

Doc picked up the deck of cards and began to shuffle. “Do you know poker?”

“Stud and draw,” the woman nodded. “Many think it’s bad luck to have a woman at the table, though, so I haven’t worked much in that field.”

“All the dealers here are women,” Lia said.

Doc laid out a mock hand of five people, and explained the game in quick short terms. Once he was done, he slid her the cards and had her show him what she’d learned. When she finished, she stared at Doc, clearly waiting for his opinion.

“Well, Miss Cook,” Doc grinned, “you made two small mistakes, but you did a damned sight better than the others.” He put his hand out to shake. “Are you interested?”

Petunia Cook grinned as she took his hand and shook. “I am, if the pay’s good.”

Doc didn’t feel any tinge of Darkness to her, so he gave Lia a grin. “She’s the best one yet.”

“I had a feeling,” Lia smiled. “Pay for manning the tables is…”

Chapter Thirty-two

Doc had time on his hands after talking to the potential hires. Lia was settling the six they’d agreed on, and had paid for the other four to catch the coach out of town if they wanted.

Having spent time with Lia for a good portion of the day, Doc got some paper, recalling Lia’s wedding speech from the day before. He was putting the finishing touches on his work when Posy knocked on the door.

“Doc, you have a visitor,” Posy informed him.

“Oh? Someone we know?”

“No. It’s a bestial who says he heard of you from Henrick.”

“Send him in,” Doc said, putting his idea aside. “Oh, and Posy, who sings the best, besides Lia?”

“Cassia,” Posy replied.

“Is she working yet?”

“Not for a couple of hours.”

“Can you ask her to see me, please? I have a request to make of her.”

Posy nodded, a smile on her face as she bounced away. “Okay!”

“Cutest damned kid,” Doc murmured as he watched her go.

It was only a couple of minutes later before a hesitant knock announced the man that’d asked to see Doc. He had short brown hair and walked with a stiff left leg, but what caught Doc’s attention the most were the bestial’s rectangular pupils.

“Excuse me, sir?” the man asked. “I was told you might be able to help me.”

“Come on in,” Doc said. “Henrick sent you?”

“Yes, sir. Said her ointments couldn’t help, but you might be able to.”

“What’s the problem?” Doc asked as the man took a seat.

“My left knee. I was working on my farm last week and it buckled on me. I gave it a week to see if it’d heal up, but it hasn’t. Whittaker won’t help the likes of me, so I went to Henrick. She said she didn’t think any of her remedies would work and suggested I come see you. She wasn’t clear on how you could help, exactly.”

“The knee got stiff and doesn’t move like it should?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. I can try to help, but it comes at a cost,” Doc said.

The man grimaced. “Of course. How much?”

“Not that kind of cost,” Doc said. “It requires faith. You’ll see in a moment.” Doc got up and moved around the table, moving two chairs into position. “Put your leg up on this chair, please, and pull your pant leg up,” Doc said, tapping one as he took a seat in the other.

Clearly confused, the man did as asked, his face contorting with pain.

Doc took a deep breath. “Lady Luck, this man is in need of your aid. Please help him regain his movement.” The moment he triggered healing hands, he heard the man’s surprised gasp.

“Wha—?”

Doc’s hands touched his leg before he could finish the sentence. Damaged meniscus? Yeah, that would do it. Just fix it and he should be good to go. There’s a touch of flu in his lungs... might as well remove that, too.

The man never finished his sentence. He just stared at Doc’s green, glowing hands holding his leg. The pain receded and he began to breathe easier, as well.

Doc let the glow fade and sat back, taking his hands away. “Lady Luck provides. The cost, as I said, is faith. A prayer or two to Lady Luck is enough. How do you feel?”

“Uh...” the man said, blinking his eyes rapidly, “good?”

Doc chuckled. “Why don’t you stand up and give it a few steps?”

Mind whirling, the man did as Doc suggested without thinking about it. It was on the second pace that he suddenly stopped and looked down at his own legs. “It’s… it’s gone? The pain is gone! Thank you! Thank you so much.”

“I’d say it worked, then,” Doc replied. “Just say a prayer or two to Lady Luck. It was her power that healed you. I’m merely doing what she asks me to do.”

“Lady Luck,” the man said, nodding. “I will.” He advanced to Doc with his hand outstretched. “Thank you, sir. Are you sure I can’t pay you?”

“A couple of prayers to Lady Luck is enough,” Doc said, shaking the bestial’s hand.

The man was soon gone and Doc had just put the chairs back in place when Cassia knocked on the door. “Doc?”

“Cassia, thanks for stopping by,” Doc said. “Care for a seat?” He pulled one of the chairs back out.

Cassia gave him a smile and sat. “Very gentlemanly of you.” Her smile slipped for a second before it returned.

“Thinking of the marshal?”

“Yes. He was like you in that way,” Cassia said softly, placing a hand over her belly. “I hope our child takes after him.”

“Indeed, but also after you,” Doc said. “They might not know their father, outside of what you can tell them, but I know that with you to raise them, they’ll be raised with love.”

“That they will,” Cassia agreed. “What can I do for you?” she asked, changing the topic.

“I was told by Posy that, next to Lia, you’re the best singer in the Lily.”

“I’m not sure of that, but I am good at it,” Cassia smiled.

“I have a song I’d like you to sing. It’s for Lia. She brought it to mind for me.”

“A love song?” Cassia asked with twinkling eyes.

“No,” Doc laughed, “though it is a song about hope. Hmm... maybe it does have a hint of a love song to it. It might also touch on how you view the marshal.”

“Oh? Can I see it?”

Doc slid her the sheet music he’d made up. “Here you go. I have to work with Heather on it, still, so it’s not an absolute rush.”

Cassia read through the lyrics, and a sad smile crossed her lips. “Yes, this I can sing. Heather will only need to play it once or twice to have it down. It’ll take me a day or two to make sure I have the lyrics memorized.”

“When you’re ready, let Heather know,” Doc said. “I’m going to give her the sheet music tonight.”

“She should be here by now,” Cassia said. “These are for me?”

“Yeah, I have hers here,” Doc said, picking up the other papers. “Thanks, Cassia.”

“Of course, Doc,” Cassia said before she cleared her throat. “Umm, Doc? Why are you doing all of this?”

“Huh?” Doc asked, already standing up.

“All of this. Helping Lia save the Lily, making it so we can work without selling ourselves? All of it.”

“Because it’s what Lady Luck wants me to do,” Doc smiled. “The world is falling into Darkness and she tasked me with bringing it back to the light. This is my first step on my journey to do just that.”

“I’ve heard some of them talk, and I’ve seen Daf, but…”

“I can check on you and your child, if you’d like,” Doc offered.

“It won’t hurt them, will it?”

“I wouldn’t do it if there was even the slightest chance of that.”

“What do I need to do?” Cassia asked slowly.

“Just give me your hand,” Doc said, putting his right hand, palm up, on the table.

Cassia’s brow furrowed, but she did as he asked. A moment later, their hands were coated in green glowing energy, and Cassia’s eyes went wide.

She’s mostly healthy. A little low on iron, though. Definitely needs to eat more meat, Doc thought before he focused on the growing child. Perfectly healthy. No worries there, as long as Cassia brings her iron up.

The glow faded before Doc said, “The child is perfectly fine, but you’re a little anemic, which could impact them.” Seeing her confusion, he tried to clarify, “You’re low on iron.” Her brow furrowed more and he sighed. “Your blood is low in iron. Eat more red meat, and it’ll give you what you need.”

“I… okay?” Cassia said with confusion, clearly still lost.

“The only thing you need to remember is to get more red meat in your diet. You don’t have to go overboard, but increase it a little, at least. I can check you again in a few days to make sure things are improving. If you start feeling fatigued, let me know at once.”

“I will,” Cassia said.

“Good. Your child should be strong and healthy as long as you are.”

“The light?” Cassia asked slowly.

“A gift from Lady Luck to me,” Doc said. “It’s how I heal others.”

“Oh. It felt warm,” Cassia said.

“Sonya said the same thing,” Doc replied. “You okay?”

“Yes. It just reminded me of Wenn,” Cassia said with a sad smile. “He used to hold me at night, and it reminded me of that.” There was a pause before she asked, “Do you think she’ll look after him for me?”

“He’s told me he’s had her favor before. I’m sure she’s still got an eye on him,” Doc replied. “Doesn’t mean he’ll be safe from everything, but even a little safer is good.”

Cassia got to her feet. “Yes. I’ll make sure to thank her later. Thank you, Doc. I’ll work on this.” She held up the papers a little.

“Thank you, Cassia.”

~*~*~

Stepping into the main room of the Lily, Doc smiled as he heard a familiar song being played by Heather. Moving over to the piano, he watched her work through the song, adding her own personal flair to it.

“What did you think?” Heather asked when she ended the song on a flourish.

“That you’re very skilled,” Doc grinned. “I had a favor to ask.”

“Okay, as long as you teach me a new song,” Heather said.

“Funnily enough,” Doc chuckled and handed over the sheet music, “I want you to play this when Cassia asks you to. She has the other set, since she’ll be singing. I don’t want you to practice it here, though. I want it to be a surprise for Lia.”

Heather’s hand paused just short of the sheet music. “For Lia?”

“Yes. I think she’ll like it, and it was her words that inspired me to do this,” Doc said.

“I had no idea...” Heather murmured. “Very well, Doc. I’ll have it ready by tomorrow.”

“Thanks,” Doc smiled. “I’m free if you want to play a duet or two.”

Heather’s eyes lit up. “I’d love to.”

Chapter Thirty-three

Doc lay still as he listened to the light snoring coming from both sides. Need a bigger room and bed, Doc thought as he listened to his two wives sleeping peacefully. Maybe one with metal springs. This thing’s about to collapse with the use it’s getting. If only I had magic that could shape things... man, talk about an easy way to make a difference.

“Morning, Doc,” Fiala murmured as she pushed her ass against his semi-hard cock.

“Morning to you, too,” Doc whispered, kissing the tip of her ear. “Don’t do that. We’ll wake Sonya if you do.”

“I’m awake,” Sonya said, her leg going over his. “This bed isn’t good for multiple partners. I don’t know how you managed it with the others.”

“Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” Doc chuckled. “Both feeling better, are you?”

“That woman is driving us hard,” Fiala sighed and stopped teasing him, “but we’re applying ourselves. You might need to help Ayla this morning. She was as bad as we both were.”

“I’ll ask at breakfast,” Doc said. “We need to see about a bigger room, or at least a bigger bed. Maybe a fancy one that isn’t just straw or the like shoved into a case?”

“There are spring mattresses, but they’re expensive,” Sonya said. “I heard a rumor that Elder Becker has one in her home.”

“I’ll have to talk to her about where to get one, then,” Doc said. “I’m glad you’re both feeling better. Between your thighs and general tiredness, I was concerned.

“I’m surprised I was as tired as I was,” Sonya said, kissing his neck.

“Learning how to care for and ride a horse is hard work,” Doc said.

A soft knock on the door told them that Posy had left their water for them, and Fiala sighed again as she got out of bed. “Wash, breakfast, and back to her…”

“It’s for Doc and us, so it’s worth it,” Sonya said and climbed over Doc, pausing to kiss him briefly. “Maybe tonight, we won’t be as tired?”

“Hmm, I think you two might need to skip today. I need Ayla for the bank, as it is.”

“I won’t complain,” Fiala said. “I don’t want to tell Chruxia, though.”

“I’ll handle it,” Doc said. “Should be able to before I go.”

“Just going to lay there while we get ready?” Sonya asked, glancing down at Doc’s rising interest.

“Well, only one person can wash up at a time and, besides, the view is fantastic,” Doc grinned.

Fiala laughed as she began to wet the washcloth. “He does this all the time. Why don’t you get a little while I wash, and then I’ll take over while you have your turn?”

“Deal,” Sonya said. “Lose that blanket, please?”

Doc didn’t need more encouragement. Pushing the blanket down allowed his standing pride to be seen. “How do you want it?”

“I think I want to work more on… what did you call it again…? A blowjob?” Sonya asked, then slipped into bed.

~*~*~

The three of them found Lia, Ayla, and Chruxia in the dining room, waiting for them.

“At least it’s earlier than yesterday,” Chruxia snorted halfway through her breakfast.

Ayla’s face betrayed a couple of emotions before she looked back down at her food, quickly taking another bite.

“Actually,” Doc said, “I wanted to see if we could push off their lesson today. I need Ayla for work, and I think it’d be better if they were all on the same page.”

Chruxia arched an eyebrow as she chewed. Once she swallowed, she gave voice to what was on her mind, “That’s what you want to go with?”

“I always try the truth,” Doc replied as he took his seat. “Ayla is my finance manager, and I’ll need her when the bank gets the rest of my money in.”

Chruxia looked to Lia. “I’d charge a quarter, since food was provided.”

Lia looked at Ayla. “Well?”

“I’ll make sure it’s paid,” Ayla said, shifting uncomfortably in her seat.

Chruxia chuckled. “Don’t take too many days off. It won’t get any easier if you do.” Downing the last of her cup of coffee, she got to her feet. “You all have a good day, and I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“I’ll see you out, Zava,” Lia said.

When Lia and Chruxia left, Posy came in with food and drink for the three who hadn’t started breakfast yet. “Sorry the water wasn’t hot today, but you didn’t answer when I knocked the first time,” Posy told Doc when she served him.

“Didn’t mean to sleep in,” Doc told her. “Thank you for the second knock.”

Posy beamed and left after collecting the empty plates.

“Ayla, did you want me to heal the soreness for you?” Doc asked.

Ayla shifted in her seat. “If it’s not a problem. It made it hard to sleep last night.”

“Sorry about that,” Doc said. “Just come by and have dinner with us when you have lessons, and I can help if you need it. Oh, I’ll probably have another big expenditure soon. I need to talk with Elder Becker to find out what it might cost, though.”

“What’s that?” Ayla asked as she finished her meal.

“A real bed,” Doc replied, “one big enough for all of us.”

Ayla’s cheeks heated and she looked away from the three of them. “Oh, yes, I can see where that would be necessary. A bed big enough for three. What do you mean by real bed?”

“Metal springs,” Doc clarified after swallowing a bite.

“Those are very nice beds. Expensive, but you can more than afford one. It’ll be shipping it here that’s the problem. It’d take a significant time. You can probably get the dwarves to make one faster and cheaper, if not to the same quality.”

“You’ve slept on one,” Doc said, seeing the knowing in her eyes.

“I brought one with me when I came here,” Ayla admitted. “It helps me sleep, but not when I have sore thighs, it seems.”

Doc chuckled around his bite of food, swallowing before he could choke. “You won’t have that problem going forward.”

“Thank you.”

“Since we have the day off,” Fiala said, “Sonya and I are going to her old home to gather her things.”

“And to see the seamstress,” Sonya added. “I need to collect my money, first.”

“Hmm. Ayla, can we set them up with access to my personal account?” Doc asked.

“Of course,” Ayla replied.

“Doc, you don’t need to,” Fiala said. “We both have money.”

“Okay,” Doc said, “but you’re my wives, and I want to take care of you both.”

“It’s entirely possible,” Ayla said. “They’d need to come with us to be registered to the account. It might take a little while as the… person… who’d do that is an idiot.”

Fiala snickered. “Not a fan?”

“She’s good for only one thing,” Ayla said tightly, “and that’s the least useful part of what Goodman demands from that job.”

Sonya blushed slightly. “Oh...”

Ayla cleared her throat, her own cheeks heating again. “Yes.”

“At least you won’t be in that position again,” Fiala said, watching Ayla closely. “Doc would never coerce you into that type of thing.”

Ayla smiled, but there was a brief flicker of something else. “Yes. Doc is worth a million Goodmans.”

“Maybe not financially, but in every other way, probably,” Doc chuckled. “No idea when the money might come in, so we might have time to kill.”

Posy came rushing into the room. “Doc, Lia sent me to tell you the bank’s wagon is coming into town now.”

Doc pushed his plate away and got to his feet. “Ladies, go ahead and finish eating. This is going to take a while anyway.”

Sonya nodded. “As you wish, Doc.”

Fiala had been about to push her plate away, too, but instead, gave Doc a smile. “Very well, husband. We won’t keep you waiting long.”

~*~*~

Doc made sure he healed Ayla before they left so she could walk normally. “How was it?” he asked her as they walked through the main room.

“Difficult, but I’m fast to learn,” Ayla said. “It’s just steps and understanding.”

Doc frowned as they left the Lily. The tables didn’t seem as busy as normal, but his attention was called away by something else. Coming down the street toward the bank was an armored wagon. Two men sat on top of it behind steel walls, looking like lookouts in a crow’s nest, armed with rifles. The driver held the reins to the four mounts, but they weren’t horses. The things pulling the wagon had the shape of horses, but they were mechanical. Each had a glowing gem set behind a wire cage in their forehead.

“That’s... different,” Doc said, his pace slowing as he stared.

“Armored wagons are needed for money transport to deter all but the most brazen highwaymen,” Ayla said.

“No, I meant the horses.”

“Oh, crafted by the best smiths and powered by soul stones,” Ayla said. “Some of what you produce from the mine will likely be used in the construction of similar mounts.”

“And on the trains?” Doc asked.

“With the high-quality stones produced, yes. In fact, now that I’m thinking about it, I believe you can keep a small percentage for yourself. I’m not positive on the laws regarding that, though.”

“We need a lawyer,” Doc sighed. “Need to find out about collaring Rosa, still, too. She agreed to it.”

Ayla nearly fell, stumbling a step at his words. “She agreed? Dryads fight tooth and nail to avoid being captured!”

“Well, Rosa’s special,” Doc said before laughing softly, “or maybe I am. Either way, she agreed. Fiala heard her. I need to make sure she can go with us safely.”

“I see,” Ayla said. “That does put more emphasis on finding out.”

Doc finally took his eyes off the wagon as it came to a stop in front of the bank. In doing so, he found something else to draw his eye— the Gold Strike. A group of people were lined up outside the door, obviously waiting to go inside.

“Any idea what that’s about?” Doc asked, motioning to the line.

“No. I’m sure we can find out, though.”

“After the bank,” Doc said as they crossed the street.

Chapter Thirty-four

One of the coachmen had made it inside before them and was speaking to the guard standing by the mayor’s door. “Look, I don’t care if it’s him or her, just get me someone who’s authorized to sign off on this.”

“I already told you— Goodman isn’t here, and the assistant’s busy.”

“Obviously not with Goodman,” Ayla said acidly as she walked toward the arguing pair.

“Oh, thank Apoc,” the coachman said, turning to Ayla. “We have the money that the branch requested. We just need you to sign for it.”

Ayla gave the man a polite smile. “I can’t. I don’t work for that pig anymore. In fact, your delivery is because of my new employer’s mine. I warned Goodman before that he needed to have more than double what he had in holding, but he never did.”

The coachman grimaced and glanced at Doc. “Couldn’t wait for a normal dispatch?”

“He upset the head of finance,” Doc shrugged.

Before more could be said, the secretary came out of Goodman’s office, fixing her skirt, with a man behind her. “Oh! Uh…”

“Shut it!” Ayla snapped at her. “It’s plainly obvious what was happening. Just sign the paperwork.”

The mystery man hurried over to the teller cages, looking down at the floor.

The secretary, Clamet, went red, then white. “Jealous, much?”

Ayla laughed. “Of what? You whoring yourself out to Goodman, and then to Steinagel? Kenneth isn’t going to say no to a tumble, not when he can say he’s fucking the boss over by fucking you.”

Kenneth wouldn’t meet anyone’s eyes as he ducked behind the counter.

“Stop!” the coachman snapped. “Save the damned catfight for later. You’re the new assistant bank manager?”

Clamet straightened her jacket. “I am.”

“Then fucking sign,” he growled, thrusting the clipboard at her.

“Behave,” the guard snorted.

The coachman looked at the bestial and shook his head. “Don’t. You might think your boss is big, but he answers to my boss’ boss. You interfere and you won’t have a job anywhere in this territory.”

The guard blinked slowly before backing up a step. “Do it,” he told Clamet.

Clamet took the clipboard and signed the papers without reading them, then thrust it back to the coachman. “There, it’s signed. Just store it and go.”

The coachman checked the forms before nodding and leaving without another word.

“What do you want?” Clamet asked nastily to Ayla.

“The money owed,” Ayla said with an icy smile. “All of it.”

Clamet glanced at Doc. “You could do so much better than this breed.”

Doc laughed. “I don’t think so. Ayla has proven time and again her worth. If I wasn’t already married to two wonderful women, I might’ve asked her, just to make sure she couldn’t get away.”

Clamet sneered and stormed off, clearly not wanting to deal with them. “Kenneth, you handle their business!” she yelled toward the counter as she went.

Doc chuckled as he watched her go, then turned back to Ayla, who wasn’t facing him. “Hey, don’t let her get to you. I meant it— you’re amazing.”

Ayla didn’t reply, and Doc’s attention was taken when both of the front doors were thrown open. The coachman stood there, directing two hulking men to enter the building. They stood nearly nine-feet tall, had gray skin, and their ears were large and flappy. The elephant bestials each carried large chests into the room and straight toward the massive metal vault door, where Clamet was standing with the bull bestial.

“Damn, those guys are huge.”

“And as gentle as a person can be, as long as you don’t harm their families,” Ayla said softly. “Strongest bestials in the world. They get a lot of the heavy-lifting jobs. Never slight one, though. They have long memories.”

“I’ll keep it in mind. Should we go deal with Kenneth?”

“Kenneth isn’t as bad as some of the others,” Ayla said. “After I refused his first advance, he’d just glance at me at times.”

“Found you attractive,” Doc said. “Can’t blame him for that, but his taste has really slipped.”

Ayla’s eyes drifted to Clamet. “She’s all breast.”

“Some guys like that,” Doc said. “While I’m not opposed, it’s not the end-all-be-all for female attractiveness for me.”

“Oh?” Ayla asked, glancing his way. “You have a type?”

“No. All women can be beautiful. No matter how attractive your physique, if you’re a hateful person like her, I’d rather sleep with a porcupine.”

Ayla laughed. “Less prickly?”

“By a lot,” Doc chuckled.

Reaching the counter, they found Kenneth still hunkered down.

“Hey, Kenneth, we have business to conduct,” Doc said.

Kenneth glanced over the top of the counter before standing up fully. “How can I help you?”

“We need the remaining balance of what’s owed moved to Luck’s Holdings,” Ayla said.

“Once the money has been verified, we can do that,” Kenneth said, his gaze darting to Clamet by the vault. “Until then, I can’t do a lot.”

“Doc, did you see the team outside?” Sonya asked as she and Fiala came toward them. “A four-soul team? That’s a big investment. I can see why the bank would want them, though.”

Kenneth’s gaze shifted to Fiala and Sonya, and his lips thinned. “I’m dealing with customers, miss. You’ll need to—”

“My wives are fine to hear this,” Doc cut him off sharply. “In fact, since we have to wait for the money to be verified, we can take care of the second part first. They both need to be added to my personal account.”

Kenneth’s face went through a few emotions before settling on disgust. “Fine. I’ll need them to fill out a few forms.”

“I’ll handle them while you do the rest of it,” Ayla said, taking the forms from him. “It’ll be just a moment. Fiala, Sonya, come over here, please,” Ayla said, motioning them aside.

“Kenneth,” Doc said with false cheer, “treat them well or we’ll be having problems. This small kerfuffle over the money will seem tiny in comparison. Got it?”

Kenneth swallowed. “Yes, sir.”

“Good.”

~*~*~

It didn’t take long for them to be added to his account, given a couple of checks, and then sent on their way. It took far longer for the money to be brought in and accounted for. Since they had time, Doc and Ayla took seats off to the side and waited.

“Doc,” Ayla started to ask hesitantly, “why did you agree to marry Sonya?”

“She’s a lot like me,” Doc said. “She honestly wants to be beside me, even though I’ll likely have powerful enemies. Can’t deny she’s beautiful, either. Maybe a little young, but she’s a dwarf, and I’m… well... me. That won’t matter for long. I’m just glad she’s old enough now... I don’t want to be that kind of guy. There’s also the amount of help she’ll be when we’re dealing with the clans. There are lots of reasons.”

“I see,” Ayla said softly. “You do honestly care for her.”

“Yeah. Does that seem odd?”

“No. I was curious how much was affection and attraction versus her just being useful.”

“Eighty-twenty or ninety-ten split,” Doc shrugged. “Hard to put numbers to it.”

“I guess it would be.”

“What brought this on?”

“Curiosity,” Ayla said. “Fiala and Sonya are very different, but you seem to love them both deeply.”

“You don’t really get to pick who you love,” Doc said.

“No. No, you don’t,” Ayla said softly. “Do you think you’ll have more wives?”

Doc rubbed his chin, feeling a faint hint of stubble. “No idea. The way things are going right now, maybe? I’m not averse to the idea, but whoever they are, they’ll have to get along with Sonya and Fiala. A tall thing to ask of anyone.”

“We have the numbers,” Kenneth called over to them.

“About time,” Ayla muttered. “I used to run this place better.”

“Not everyone can be as organized as you, Ayla,” Doc told her as they stood up. “Now, let’s go see what they fucked up this time.”

~*~*~

Doc glanced at the Gold Strike. The line had vanished during the last few hours, but he was still curious as to what had been going on. Crossing the street, Doc made his way to the gambling hall.

The entrance hadn’t changed— there were still the two workers behind the bars to exchange money for chips. Doc headed for them, ignoring the two bull bestials that held shotguns beside it. “Afternoon. Can I get some chips, please?”

“Of course, sir,” the woman said politely. “If you’d been here a couple of hours ago, you could’ve taken advantage of the tournament bonus we had going.”

“Oh?”

“If you bought into the ten-dollar tournament, we gave two dollars’ worth of chips for you to enjoy the other games before or after the tournament.”

“Shame I missed it,” Doc said. “Can I get fifty, please?” He dropped three coins on the counter in front of her.

“Right away,” she smiled. “The upstairs room is likely to be restricted later while the tournament proceeds, but we’ve opened up a couple of higher stakes tables on the bottom floor to compensate.”

“Thank you.”

“Would you like a companion? We can have those available come to greet you.”

“Pass,” Doc chuckled. “Don’t want unknown perfume on me when I go home later.”

The teller smiled at him. “Of course, sir.”

Taking his chips, Doc walked into the main room of the Gold Strike. It was busy— busier than he expected— and that made him remember how slow it was at the Lily this morning. Guess Goodman is making his first move... Doc thought as he looked over the room.

Taking a long, slow walk around the room, Doc had to wave off two of the women the place used to keep people entertained. He didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary on the bottom floor— there were no new games or major changes. The two bestials guarding the stairs had him meander that way.

“Tournament upstairs?” Doc asked politely.

“Yes. No spectators,” the guard grunted.

“Ah. What game is being played?”

“Draw. Five-card,” the guard replied bluntly.

“I see. Thank you.”

Doc went over to the highest ante draw game he’d seen. There were three players sitting at the table with a decent stack of chips in front of them. Taking an empty seat while the dealer shuffled, Doc gave the others a nod. “Afternoon. Dollar ante, is it?”

“Yes,” the oldest of the three said. “Little light there to be playing with us, aren’t you?”

“Maybe, but that just means you’ll probably have my money faster,” Doc laughed, tossing a dollar chip into the middle of the table. “I know I have the ante.”

The game was pedantic, and Doc noticed both times that the dealer sleeved aces, only to deal them to the older man. He didn’t care much, as he was more interested in hearing what the players who came from upstairs had to say.

Nearly out of money three hours later, the room was almost full from everyone coming downstairs. Doc had heard enough, and decided it was time to make his move. He waited for the dealer to slide an ace up his sleeve before he stood up abruptly.

“Dealer, I’d like you to roll those sleeves up,” Doc said it loudly enough that the majority of the room heard him.

The dealer blinked at him, not expecting to be singled out. “What?”

“You keep taking the aces and dealing them to him,” Doc motioned with his head to the old guy, not taking his eyes off the dealer. “Cheating is bad enough, but a dealer cheating is even worse.”

One of the guards was coming their way quickly, and the room began to talk excitedly. “Hey, what’s the problem?”

“Your dealer is a cheat, and so is that one,” Doc said, pointing to the older man while still keeping his eyes on the dealer. “The deck is short at least one ace, which is up his right sleeve.”

The dealer held the deck in his left hand, growing a little pale. “Preposterous!”

“Set the deck down and let’s check it,” Doc said.

“You’re not in charge here,” the bestial growled. “Accusing a dealer is serious.”

“Then you do it!” Doc snapped. “Why should anyone come gamble in a crooked hall?”

The commotion rose as others started to eye their dealers, too.

“Excuse me!” a loud voice called from the stairs, getting most of the patrons to look that way. “What is the problem here?”

“You have a cheat, Goodman,” Doc said. “Dealer is holding cards for a player.”

Goodman frowned at Doc. “Holyday, that’s a serious accusation.”

“Wouldn’t make it idly,” Doc shrugged. “Why don’t you come prove it: right or wrong?”

“Sir, he’s wrong,” the dealer said as he started to move his right arm.

“Try to get rid of that card, and things will get much worse,” Doc said grimly.

A heavy hand slammed onto Doc’s shoulder. “Hey, you threatening him?”

Doc’s gaze still never wavered. “No. Threats are for people who don’t follow through. Are you trying to stop a cheat from being outed?”

“Buff, stop it,” Goodman said. “Doc, why don’t we just check, and then you can apologize to him, me, and everyone here?”

“And if I’m right?” Doc asked as the hand left his shoulder.

“We’ll have to see if you are, first,” Goodman said amiably as he crossed the room to the table.

“Sure.”

“Franklin, step back from the table. Set the cards down,” Goodman said.

“It’s in his right sleeve,” Doc said firmly. “No reason for you to move that arm, Franklin.”

Franklin froze, as he had started to transfer the deck from his left to his right hand.

“Just set the deck down,” Doc said.

Goodman got to the table and sighed. “Put it down and step back.”

Franklin placed the deck down and took a step back. Doc never once looked away from Franklin, waiting for him to try slipping the ace out. Franklin shifted nervously, looking at Doc, but not meeting his eyes.

Goodman turned the deck over and began to separate it out by suit. The entire room was paying attention to the drama— not a single game was in play at the moment. One by one, the cards were checked until Goodman finished with a sour look on his face.

“Ace of hearts,” Doc said. “Right sleeve.”

Franklin bolted for the door and Goodman raised his voice, “Buff, stop him! Take him to Grange. I’ll deal with it later.”

One of the two guards in the front room opened the door just in time to snag Franklin. Franklin thrashed, and as he did, a single card went flying away from him. One of the patrons nearby picked it up.

“Ace of hearts,” he said, holding it up.

The door was shut, and Franklin’s cries of innocence were muted. Goodman cleared his throat so all attention turned to him. “Ladies and gentlemen, I apologize. To have a cheat dealing is an affront to you all. If I had any indication that he or any of my dealers were doing this, I’d have them stripped and run out of town for the wildfolk to get. I can’t assuage your fears, but I promise you that any dealer found cheating will be held accountable, and any money you lost will be refunded.”

People appeared to relax at his wording, until Goodman continued, “However, false accusations will be severely punished, as well. I won’t see the name of the Gold Strike smeared just so someone can get their money back.”

The man who’d been getting cards from Franklin had been sitting still the entire time, afraid to bring attention back to himself. However, his chair creaked, grabbing Goodman’s attention.

“Sully, you’ve been a customer for years, but you’ve been cheating.”

“No,” Sully said firmly. “I had no idea. I just thought my luck was up, Goodman. I’ve played against a lot of you,” he said, getting to his feet and looking at the room. “Lost a good amount, too. Just yesterday, I lost over a hundred. A lot of you took pieces of it. If I was cheating, I never would’ve lost that way.”

The room seemed divided on believing him or not.

“You might be innocent. I never saw you signal him,” Doc said, helping his case. “Mayor, I’d give him a chance.”

Sully’s relief was prominent. “Thank you.”

“Well, what of you two?” Goodman asked the other two players.

“If we get our original money back, I’m fine with it,” one of them said.

The other hesitated, then shrugged. “Fine, with our money back.”

“Very well. Buff, take these men to the cage and make sure they’re given their original money back, and let them keep their chips.”

“Yes, sir,” Buff grunted.

Goodman met Doc’s eyes, “Holyday, you missed the tournament. I expected you would be there.”

“I had to handle a banking problem,” Doc said. “Tournament was started before I was done, and I’d rather let the others enjoy the low stakes games.”

“I can arrange a bigger stakes game, if you’d like,” Goodman said.

“You, me, and Suez?” Doc asked with a smile. “I’d say Brand, too, but he left town, last I heard.”

Goodman nodded. “He did indeed. I’ll let you know when the game will be.”

“Sounds good to me,” Doc said. “Have a good day.”

“You, as well.”

As Doc left, he felt Goodman’s eyes on his back and could hear the conversations about a new rivalry in town.

Chapter Thirty-five

Doc was close to Otto’s shop when he noticed the two men loitering near the barbershop. Both were clean enough, but when he got closer, he saw one of the men stop someone from getting to the door.

“Look, I’m just saying the dwarf can’t be trusted. We heard he nearly took the ear off someone and laughed at them when they complained.”

“Otto’s always been good with me,” the man said.

“He started showing his bias against humans,” the man said, stepping back, “but maybe missing an ear is fine with you.”

Doc grunted, having heard the conversation. He locked eyes with the second man, who was moving toward him. “Move,” Doc said simply as he went to walk right past him.

The second guy shoved his hand out to stop Doc. “Whoa there, what’s the rush?”

Doc stopped when the man’s hand touched his chest. Looking down, Doc sighed. “That’s assault. Remove your hand.”

The man laughed and pulled away from him. “Easy now. I just wanted to save you some trouble.”

Doc snorted. “Funny. You look like you want to cause trouble.”

The smile on the man’s face dropped. “Look, dwarf lover, just move along.”

“Or what?” Doc asked as he stepped back and brushed his jacket open.

The man’s eyes fell to the pistol on Doc’s hip and he held up his hands. “Nothing. Nothing at all. We’re just concerned citizens trying to stop accidents from happening.”

“No, you’re thugs paid to run people off,” Doc said, his hand still clear of his gun.

“Look out!”

Doc heard the yell and, instead of turning, dropped to his knees, yanking the gun out as he went. The first thug swung where Doc’s head had been, but staggered past him when he missed. Both men started backing away, since Doc had a gun out.

“Stop,” Doc told the thugs. “Thank you,” he called out to the man who’d given him the warning. “Assault, and then attempted assault. You two aren’t bright.” Doc caught sight of one of the deputies moving toward them and smiled. “Deputy, can you take these two in?”

“I can. I saw them,” Fido said. “Come along peacefully.”

The two men glared at Doc, then Fido, spitting at the deputy’s feet. “Damned beasts. They never should’ve given you a badge.”

Fido snarled darkly. “Move.”

Both men started to walk away with Fido following them, his gun drawn. Doc got to his feet and holstered his pistol. Dusting off his pants, Doc looked behind him to see the other bystander was gone.

Shrugging, he stepped up onto the porch of the barbershop, ready for a shave. He frowned, because the door was locked, and he knocked. “Otto, you in?”

Hearing movement inside, Doc waited. A moment later, he saw an eye emerge around the edge of the curtain, then the sound of a lock clicking open.

“Doc,” Otto said, peeking outside. “They left?”

“Arrested,” Doc said. “That’ll give you a little time, at least.”

“Damned Whittaker,” Otto growled. “Those two have been causing trouble all day. Been driving everyone off.”

“Didn’t come out and deal with them yourself?”

“No. They would’ve outnumbered me, and I’m sure they would’ve claimed I started the fight.”

“Yeah, probably,” Doc agreed. “Can I come in for a shave?”

“Yeah,” Otto said, moving aside. “I’ll start getting things ready.”

~*~*~

Doc was shaking Otto’s hand when the door opened and Grange stormed into the shop. “Holyday, what the hell did you think you were doing?”

Doc turned to Grange. “Afternoon, Sheriff. No idea what you’re talking about.”

Grange glared at him. “Making my deputy arrest two innocent men. I really dislike apologizing.”

Doc’s brow furrowed. “Innocent? One of them laid hands on me, and the second one tried to sucker punch me. How is that innocent?”

“Your word against both of theirs,” Grange said stiffly. “They said you brandished your gun and threatened them.”

“What did your deputy say?”

“Doesn’t matter,” Grange said.

Doc just stared at him disbelievingly. “Are you shitting me? You’re just ignoring your own deputy’s word?”

Grange’s knuckles popped. “Do you have any evidence of the alleged assault?”

“No,” Doc said. “Are you done?”

“Figures. Next time, my deputies won’t be so quick to come to your assistance,” Grange snorted.

Otto stayed silent the entire time, but once Grange left, he sighed. “Well, that means I’m going to get harassed all the time and he won’t move to help.”

“Yeah. Reminds me of something I’d forgotten, too,” Doc said. “Thanks for the shave, Otto. I’ll be seeing you soon.”

“Good day, Doc.”

~*~*~

“Holyday!”

Doc’s head snapped around to see who was yelling for him. A dwarven woman was rushing his way, looking frantic. “Easy, easy!” Doc told her, turning toward her. “What’s wrong?”

“My husband! He needs you!” she cried, tears leaking from her eyes. “Please.”

“Take me,” Doc said.

It took a few minutes to traverse the town, but he was brought to a small residence with stone walls. Following her inside, Doc was taken to a bedroom where an older dwarf lay in bed, breathing shallowly.

“Elder Creager,” Doc greeted the older dwarf. “You needed me?”

Creager’s eyes opened and he glared at Doc. “No. I don’t need a half-blood to help me.”

His wife stood at the foot of the bed, wringing her hands. “Fool! He’s the clan shaman. He can help. Just let him help, Michael.”

Michael glared at his wife, but stopped when his face contorted with pain. “Told you… to get… Whittaker…!” he managed through pained gasps.

Doc knelt next to the bed and summoned healing hands. Grabbing Michael’s arm, he was given a diagnosis almost immediately. Heart attack... arteries mostly clogged. I can fix it, Doc thought.

Michael yanked his arm away, wheezing as he did. “Get your damn hands off me!”

“You’re dying,” Doc told him, his hands still glowing. “I can heal you. Is your hatred so strong that you’d rather die and leave your wife alone than be healed by me?”

“Yes!” Michael spat. “Get out!”

Doc looked at Michael’s wife, who was openly weeping. “Ma’am, he’s refusing my help. What do you want me to do?”

“Heal him!” she cried. “I don’t want to lose him. He might be an angry grouch, but he’s all I have...”

Doc looked back at Michael, who was sweating profusely. “Your wife wants to keep you.”

“She’s sentimental,” Michael wheezed. “She’d rather set aside old hatred just to keep me.”

“Well, I don’t like a woman in distress,” Doc said. “Feel free to keep on hating me for many more years to come.” With that said, he took Michael’s arm and pushed healing into the dwarf.

Michael tried to yank his arm away again, but he was weak, and Doc wasn’t letting go this time. The pressure in the dwarf’s chest began to abate and his breathing came easier as he snarled at Doc.

Doc let go of him and stood up, backing away from the bed. “You’ll live.” He looked at the wife. “Ma’am, cut back on how much fat he eats. It was hurting his heart. He’ll be fine, but better safe than sorry.”

Crying harder, she nodded. “Thank you, Shaman… thank you!”

“Damned breed,” Michael snarled, throwing the blanket off himself. “I’ll toss you out myself!”

Doc chuckled as he backed away. “Glad to see you’re feeling better. Excuse me.”

Michael had just gotten to his feet when his wife tackled him back onto the bed, kissing him. “Don’t leave me!” she cried out as she did it.

Doc left the house in a hurry, glad to have helped even if Michael hated him.

~*~*~

He’d only made it halfway back to the Lily when Whittaker shouted at him, “Holyday!”

Doc sighed, stopped walking, and turned to the irate man. “Whittaker, something wrong?”

“Something wrong? You’ve been healing people!”

“My goddess has been healing people,” Doc said. “I’ve just been her conduit.”

“Semantics,” Whittaker spat. “You said you weren’t a healer!”

“I’m a man of faith,” Doc replied. “Healing isn’t my vocation, but I can do it. I never said I couldn’t, just that it wasn’t my job.”

Nostrils flaring, Whittaker snarled at him. “I’ll see you arrested!”

“For what?” Doc asked, already knowing.

“Healing without a license!”

“Don’t need one as a faith healer. Just need a place of worship.”

“There’s only the church in town for that!” Whittaker snapped.

“Nope. One was registered with the clerk. Don’t worry, though. Your clientele is safe. I’m just healing the ones you refuse to help.”

Whittaker’s face became red in anger. “I don’t refuse to help anyone.”

“No, you just keep putting them off, instead,” Doc said, his own voice growing heated. “That’s infinitely worse. They don’t seek other help because of that. You’d rather let them die.”

Whittaker slapped Doc. “How dare you!”

Doc spat a bit of blood mixed with his saliva— he hadn’t been expecting the hit and had nipped his own tongue. “Well, if you want it that way...” Doc growled, balling his fist and slugging Whittaker in the gut.

Gasping as the air was driven out of him, Whittaker fell to his knees.

Doc looked down at him. “You’re scum, Whittaker. Bigoted and an idiot. Just stay out of my way and I’ll stay out of yours. You want me to stop? That’s fine. Start healing everyone equally, not just based on their blood.”

Whittaker raised his head as Doc strode away from him. The anger and resentment in his face made Spot’s hackles rise as he started to follow Doc.

~*~*~

Making it back to the Lily, Doc felt tired. The whole day felt like it’d been testing him, and he had to wonder if he’d grown soft, having gotten used to everything working out for him.

The Lily was still not as busy as normal, but was fairly lively when he arrived. Heather was playing a jaunty tune on the piano, and Doc felt a smile begin to grow on his face. She’s really embracing the new music styles, he thought.

Stopping at the bar briefly, he gave Jasmine a smile. “How has it been?”

“A little slower, but still good. We’ve heard that the Gold Strike ran a tournament and that someone ousted a cheating dealer.”

“Idiot kept doing it,” Doc snorted. “Some people can’t just cheat a little. They have to keep pressing it.”

“Some people,” Jasmine shrugged. “Did you want a drink?”

“Whiskey, and something dark to chase it, please?” Doc asked.

“Oh, Doc,” Cassia said, coming down the stairs, “is now good for you?”

Doc frowned, trying to think about what she could mean, then smiled when he remembered. “If we can wrangle Lia out of the back.”

Jasmine looked up from pouring his drink. “You need Lia?”

“Ask her to step out front, but don’t tell her I asked,” Doc said. “There’s a surprise for her.”

Jasmine set his drinks down and went to go get Lia. Cassia went over to Heather as the half-elf finished her current song with a flourish. The two put their heads together, and Cassia moved onto the stage. Cassia getting on the stage drew attention from several customers, and the noise in the room dimmed substantially. Lia came out of the back, her expression puzzled as she looked at Cassia.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Cassia said, “we have a new song for you tonight. It’s a powerful song that reminds me of a man I know and hope to see again someday. While I embrace this song for him, it isn’t mine. This song was made for Lia, by Doc. I hope you all enjoy.”

Heather grinned as her fingers danced across the ivory keys of the piano and the first notes of I Need A Hero floated on the air. Heather played the first few bars, then repeated them. The second time, Cassia began to sing.

The bar listened as she sang the lines softly, but when she got to the right spot, she planted her feet and started to sing powerfully. The room was dead silent as she let her emotions pour into the lyrics.

Someone in the crowd found the beat and, alone to start with, he kept time. It slowly began to build as others joined in, and as the song built toward its crescendo, the room nearly vibrated with the energy generated by the crowd.

Cassia fell silent when there was a pause, but Heather’s fingers flew across the keys. She had enraptured the room as the song came hammering out. At the right point, Cassia started again, and the crowd focused on her as she belted out the last few lines. The sudden ending left the room nearly breathless.

“Thank you,” Cassia said into the sudden silence. “Lia, did you enjoy it?”

All eyes went to Lia, who was staring at Doc with a blank expression. “It was moving, Cassia. I can see where it reminds you of the marshal. Heather, one more time, please?”

Heather smiled broadly. “As you say, Lia. Cassia?”

“I’m ready,” Cassia said. “This time, this is for Wenn.”

Chapter Thirty-six

Doc hoped everyone would be okay for the day, as Zava had been grinning throughout breakfast. He was surprised Lia hadn’t joined them, but figured she had things to take care of.

He stopped in the hall and gave Posy a smile. “How are you today, Posy?”

“Good, Doc. Are you busy today?”

Something in her tone caught Doc’s attention. “I do have something to take care of, but I could be free after that. Did you need me?”

“I was hoping you’d help me study,” Posy said a little shyly. “Momma said not to bother you if you had things to take care of.”

“I should be back in less than an hour, okay?”

Posy’s face lit up with a beautiful smile. “Yes! I’ll be ready.”

“Okay, I’ll get going and be back as soon as I can.”

Doc glanced back to see Posy bouncing into the dining room to collect the dirty dishes and chuckled softly. He was still smiling when he entered the main room. Jasmine smiled at him while she served drinks to a player, and Doc winked when he went past her.

As he walked to the door, he saw that the room was bustling like usual again. Back to normal. That means the tournament was the reason we dipped yesterday.

It was a quick walk to Blackbeard’s shop, and Doc smiled at the doorbell jingling when he entered. “Blackbeard, sorry for not making it yesterday.”

The dwarf shrugged. “You’re the customer, and you’d already paid for them.”

“Yeah, that’s true, but I said I’d be here and I wasn’t.”

“Life happens to all of us,” Blackbeard replied. “I heard you drove off a couple of idiots giving Otto a hard time.”

“Pretty sure Whittaker’s behind that one,” Doc snorted. “He also confronted me in the street.”

“I hadn’t heard that,” Blackbeard said with a chuckle. “What happened?”

Doc gave him a quick recap of his encounter with Whittaker. “I somehow doubt he’s going to let it go.”

“He’s a spiteful one,” Blackbeard said. “You can see it in his eyes.”

“He’ll learn, one way or the other,” Doc shrugged. “Anyway, how about those guns?”

Blackbeard laughed. “Of course.” Stepping into the back for a second, he came out with the rifle and pistol in his hands. “Here we are. I had the belt tooled with a little decoration for you.”

Doc picked up the pistol belt and laughed at the image of all four aces tooled into the leather. “Well, I can’t deny that I’m favored by Luck. How much did that cost?”

“Nothing,” Blackbeard said. “When I told them who it was for, they did it gratis.”

“Okay,” Doc said as he buckled the belt on. He thought it was a little odd that he’d felt naked without a pistol on, after having only been wearing one for a few days. Settling the belt, he smiled when his hand fell naturally onto the grip of the pistol. “Nice.”

“And the rifle,” Blackbeard said, laying it on the counter.

Doc looked the rifle over and his lips twitched up. Right behind the rear sight was a metal engraving bearing the inscription that marked it as one of the rare rifles. There was also a light engraving down the barrel. Looking into the chamber, Doc made sure it was clear before checking the feel against his shoulder, pointing to the floor as he did so.

“Feels good,” Doc said as she set the rifle back on the counter.

“And ammo,” Blackbeard said, placing a couple of boxes of ammo on the counter. “I’d suggest more, but that’s up to you.”

“More would be good,” Doc said. “Triple, if you have them.”

Blackbeard gave him a knowing grin and dropped another six boxes on the counter. “If that’s what you want.”

Doc shook his head and drew the pistol. Opening the chamber first to make sure it was unloaded, he gave it a good look over. Acid-etched onto the left side of the barrel were the words Mustang Wilds Six-Shooter. There was another engraving down the right side of the barrel, carved into the metal.

“Do you mind?” Doc asked Blackbeard.

“Go ahead. It’s yours.”

Doc holstered the pistol and faced away from the street. Taking a deep breath, he brushed his jacket back behind the grip and just waited a second. As fast as he could, he drew, cocked, and dry-fired. The motion was fluid and Doc grinned at his reflexes. Making sure to lower his aim to the floor, he tried fanning the hammer and nodded.

“Damn good pistol.”

“Glad you like them,” Blackbeard said, standing a handful of rounds on the counter. “For the pistol. No reason to open a box if you’re just loading it right now.”

“Thank you,” Doc said as he loaded his new weapon. “I was curious, and please pardon me for asking if it’s impolite, but how is the engraving done?”

Blackbeard gave Doc a hard look for a second. “You don’t know? Hmm. It’s a technique that has to be trained. Few are willing to teach it to others, as it means someone could take the work from them.”

“So just knowing the pattern isn’t enough?” Doc asked.

“No. Anyone can engrave the pattern, but there’s more to it than just that.”

“Figured it might be that way,” Doc sighed. “Explains why the cost of engraving is high.”

“Indeed. Much like enchanting, in that regard,” Blackbeard said, “though they like to charge more for the most part.”

“Because they can?”

“Not exactly. Most enchanting is done by people who’ve had training as a mage. A lot of enchanters failed to make it all the way. I think they’re bitter twits.”

Doc laughed. “Good to know.”

“Though,” Blackbeard said slowly, “legend says that shamans used to enchant items, too.”

“Huh... I’ll have to see if there’s anything I can learn about that,” Doc said, curious if he could.

“Might just be legend,” Blackbeard said, “but if that’s true, Shaman, you’ll have even greater value to the clans.”

“I imagine few dwarves are allowed in or graduate from the colleges?”

“Very few, indeed, and all from fallen clans. More half-dwarves get in, but again, most of them are from those same clans.”

“Good to know,” Doc said. “Thanks for the firearms.”

“Thanks for paying for them,” Blackbeard laughed. “Fortune smiled on me when I ordered those two guns.”

“Lucky for me that you did.”

“Touché, Doc.”

“I’m sure I’ll… wait,” Doc stopped and pulled his derringer. Cracking it open, he pocketed the rounds. “Can you engrave this, too?”

Blackbeard took the pistol and frowned at it. Bringing it close to his face, he sniffed at it, squinted at it, and even licked it.

“Hey, now, no licking things to claim them as your own,” Doc laughed.

Shaking his head, Blackbeard frowned. “I wasn’t. I was trying to place the metal. It looks like steel, but it seems off to me. It doesn’t have the right scent or taste of steel. Where did you get this?”

Doc paused a moment before he answered truthfully, “Luck gave it to me.”

Blackbeard’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh… I can try, but are you sure? I would hate to ruin a gift from a goddess.”

“I trust you can do it, but if you need to verify,” Doc pulled a dollar coin out. “Heads, yes, and tails, no.” He snapped the coin up, grabbed it, and slapped it onto the counter. Pulling his hand away, he grinned. “Yes, it is.”

Blackbeard nodded reverently. “I’ll do my best.”

“I know. How much?”

“Nothing, Shaman. To work on a gift from your deity is payment enough. Once word of you spreads, the other clans will ask me to engrave for them, too, as I’ll have done this.”

“Okay,” Doc said, not arguing the point. “See you in a couple of days?”

“Yes,” Blackbeard said and set the small gun under the counter. “I’ll have it done no longer than three days from today.”

“Sounds good,” Doc said as he picked up his rifle.

“Oh, almost forgot,” Blackbeard said before he pulled a rifle bag from under the counter. “Fur-lined, and the leather cover is oiled to keep the rain off.”

“More extras?”

“No. It came with the guns, like the belt.”

“Okay.” Doc had the rifle in the carry case and the ammo stuffed into his jacket pockets. “See you in a few days.”

“Indeed.”

~*~*~

Making it back to the Lily, Doc stowed his new rifle in his room. Lips pursing, he wondered if he should have the women learn how to shoot, as well. Not that they’ll likely need it, but wouldn’t it be better for them to know how to handle them than not? I’ll ask Lia when I see her. Once he put the gun and ammo away, he went back downstairs to find Posy.

Posy was in the dining room with a book in front of her. Lips moving slightly, her finger slowly traversed the page she was on. Doc watched her for a second before he entered the room.

“Hey, Posy. You look to be hard at work.”

Posy’s head jerked up and she looked at him, smiling. “Doc! You made it.”

“Told you I would,” Doc grinned, taking the seat beside her. “What’re you working on?”

“Reading,” Posy said, “but I was just finishing it.”

“Part of a page left?” Doc asked, based on where her finger had been before he startled her.

“Yeah.”

“Do you want to read it out loud to me?”

Posy shook her head. “No... I’m not good at that.”

“You mean you read a little slow and are uncertain about some of the words?”

Posy blushed and looked at the book. “Yes...” Her voice was barely audible.

“I understand. I was the same as a kid,” Doc said, “but the best way to get better is by doing.”

“Okay,” Posy said, biting her lip. “No laughing?”

Doc made a production of crossing his heart. “I promise.”

“Okay.”

Posy cleared her throat, clearly looking for where she’d stopped. Finger touching the book, she took a deep breath. “Fido looked at the house from beyond the fence. ‘Will he still love me? It’s been forever and I was a bad boy.’ With uncertain steps, Fido approached the house, his heart beating fast. His long journey was finally coming to an end.”

Doc smiled. “See? You did just fine.”

“Thank you,” Posy said, looking at the book with a worried frown. “Do you think he’ll be okay?”

“Fido?” Doc asked to clarify.

“Yes.”

“I don’t know, Posy. That’s something for you to think about, though. It’s part of critical thinking. From what you read earlier, did the owner love him? Why did Fido leave? Why did he go back? If you look at those questions and compare them to what you’ve read, the answer should be clear. Not every book has a happy ending, unfortunately. Life is like that, too.”

Posy nodded slowly as she closed the book. “It might be sad.”

“Yes.”

“I’ll find out tomorrow.”

“What’s next?” Doc asked, trying to lighten the mood.

“Math. I’ve been getting better at it.”

“Oh? Shall we see how far you’ve gotten?”

“Yes,” Posy nodded.

~*~*~

Posy was laughing when a knock on the door interrupted them.

“Excuse me, Shaman, but I have need of your wisdom,” a dwarf said from the doorway.

Doc gave the dwarf a nod. “I’ll do my best.” He looked at Posy. “Time for you to go back to work.”

“Thank you for learning with me,” Posy said as she got up, collected her workbooks, and left the room.

The dwarf stood aside as Posy left, closing the door behind her as she went. “I didn’t mean to intrude, Shaman.”

“Her break for learning was over,” Doc said. “Have a seat and tell me what the problem is.”

Taking a seat across from Doc, the dwarf looked uncertain. “I’m Vled Oresmelter, Shaman. I need your guidance on what to do about Gretchen.” When Doc didn’t comment, the dwarf cleared his throat and continued, “She’s a willful girl, Shaman. I keep telling her smelting isn’t a job she can do, but she’s started to dig in. How do I get her to understand?”

“Gretchen is your daughter?” Doc asked to clarify.

“Yes. She’s going to be an adult soon, and she’s determined to follow in my footsteps. Ever since her mother died, she’s been set on doing what I do. I tried to find a female who could help guide her to something else, but…” He trailed off with the sigh of a father at his wit’s end.

“I’m not rehearsed in smelting, so please bear with me. Why is it wrong for her to want to follow in your footsteps?”

Vled’s brow furrowed. “She’s a woman! The work is too hard for her.”

Doc’s lips thinned. “She can’t physically do the job?”

Vled’s brow contracted further. “She’s a dwarf. She can easily do the job better than the hum—”

“Humans,” Doc finished for him. “Heavy lifting and dealing with the heat? She’d likely have an edge in both those categories.”

“Uh... yes, but—”

“Is it because women shouldn’t be doing the dirty, filthy work? Or the fact that she’d be constantly harassed by the other men?”

“...Yes,” Vled said, agreeing to both.

“Can I speak with her?”

Vled nodded. “I have her waiting. Thank you, Shaman.”

Doc stood up as Vled did. “Wait,” Doc said to stop him from leaving. “I’ll talk with her, but what if I decide that she should try?”

Vled looked down. “A shaman’s word is what the gods will. While I might think it foolish, I won’t go against it. But please, try to stop her? She should have a good life being loved and cared for, not breathing in the stink of the furnaces and dealing with them.”

Doc watched the father go and wondered if he should be the one to guide people’s lives. He was still pondering it when a dwarven female knocked on the door.

“Shaman?”

“Come in, please. Have a seat.”

Doc gave her a good lookover as she moved to take her seat, and “brickhouse” was the first word that came to mind. Gretchen was a well-built woman. Doc would have bet she could handle any man who tried to accost her.

“Gretchen, do you know why you’re here?”

“My father is asking you to stop me from following in his footsteps,” Gretchen said levelly, but Doc could see the stubborn resolve in her eyes.

“Do you know why?”

Gretchen snorted through her nose and raised a hand. Her fingers were curled but she raised each as she spoke, “It’s too dirty for a girl. The men are too coarse for a girl. You don’t have the strength to do the job. No daughter of mine will lower herself to being muscle labor.”

Doc nodded. “Yes, that does sound like what I just heard. Why don’t you tell me why? Why are you so set on it?”

Gretchen hesitated, clearly wondering if it was a trap. “All I’ve known since I was a child, after Mother died, was Father and his work. I grew up with the heat and smell of the furnaces. I’m not smart like others, nor am I beautiful, but I am strong. I can do the job, and a damned sight better than… others,” she finished lamely.

“Humans,” Doc grinned, and Gretchen nodded. “Fair. You’re not wrong in that assessment. Dwarven resilience to heat and your stronger frame does mean that you’d likely exceed some of the humans. That’ll also make it much harder on you.”

“Because they’ll hate me for being a dwarf and a woman,” Gretchen said flatly. “Yes, they will. They’ll be coarse, crass, and might even try to force me out.” Her hands clenched on the table. “I can handle myself.”

Doc held up a hand to calm her. “Easy. What will you do if I side with your father?”

Gretchen stared at Doc for a long moment before bowing her head. “A shaman’s word is law. I will try to find a different path.”

“What if your fears prove true?” Doc asked. “What if the others do continuously attack you verbally and physically?”

Gretchen’s jaw set. “They’ll find out what going up against a dwarven woman means.”

Doc laughed and Gretchen glared at him. “No, no, I know what it means. I just lost my battle, you might recall.”

Gretchen’s lips twitched. “Sonya was always a stubborn one. To force a shaman to bend knee to her… not unexpected.”

Doc laughed harder, wiping at his eyes. “Matches me in the least, and might surpass me at times,” Doc admitted. His humor faded and he met Gretchen’s eyes. “Why fight your father so hard? He only wants you to have a good life.”

“Because… this way, I can still be there,” Gretchen said softly. “He’s always done everything he could for me. I don’t want to leave.”

“I see,” Doc said. “Did you consider that just finding a man to love you and care for you is all he wants?”

Gretchen sniffed, clearly holding her emotions in check. “Yes, but I want to stay longer.”

“Watching your child leave or leaving your parents is supposed to be one of the hardest things we do in life,” Doc said. “Wait here, please?” He got up and stepped into the hall. “Posy?” he called out.

“Sir?” Posy replied, poking her head out of the kitchen.

“Can you find the dwarf from earlier and ask him to come see me, please?”

“Yes, sir,” Posy said before she bounced toward the main room.

Doc went back into the dining room and took his seat. “It’ll be just a moment.”

Gretchen’s hands curled into fists and she stared at the table, just nodding.

Vled came back into the room. When he saw Gretchen’s somber mood, he looked hopeful. “Shaman, you called for me?”

“Please, sit?”

Vled took a seat one removed from his daughter, giving her a worried glance.

“Vled, you asked me to forbid your daughter from following in your footsteps. Gretchen has asked me to allow her to do so. You’ve both explained the reasons to me, but I have a feeling, Vled, that you never listened to her reasons.”

Vled’s brow furrowed. “Of course I listened.”

“Really?” Doc asked, staring the larger man in the eye. “You listened and fully heard her?”

Vled sat back, as Doc’s stare was intense. “I’m sure I have.”

“Gretchen, this is your chance,” Doc said.

“Father,” Gretchen started, her voice wavering with emotion, “I do not want to find a man to pamper me. I just want to stay beside you and help. I know you want me to have a happy life, but my happiness is to be beside you. Any man who would love me would have to accept that you are as important to me as he would be.”

Vled swallowed, looking away from her. “Your life should be yours, not tied to me, child.”

“But she’s chosen,” Doc said. “Each of us has to pick our paths. Sometimes, it haunts us for the rest of our lives, but those choices are what define who we become. You’ve both agreed to abide by my decision, and I have come to one.”

Both of them looked to him with a mixture of hope and fear.

“Gretchen, you can follow in your father’s footsteps,” Doc said, seeing her smile bloom and Vled’s eyes close, “but you will also try to find a husband who will love you the same way your father loved your mother. No knee jerk reactions to stop anyone from getting close.”

Vled opened his eyes, a faint hope in them, and Gretchen nodded.

“That’s my decision. It might not be the best, but I hope it gives you both a taste of what you’ve asked for.”

“Thank you, Shaman,” Vled said, getting to his feet.

“Thank you, Shaman,” Gretchen echoed. “I’m honored to have heard your words, and I will give the men who approach me a chance.”

“Good. Now, go home and celebrate the fact you love each other so much, you want only the best for each other.”

The father and daughter left the room, and Doc exhaled. Did I do the right thing? I’m just me, not some all-knowing mystic. Lady, did you see this coming when you chose me?

Chapter Thirty-seven

Doc wondered what today would bring to him. The last couple of days had been quiet— he’d resolved two more disputes for some dwarves in his capacity as shaman, and the women were still learning how to ride and care for the horses, though they were excited about it, now.

Doc was wondering where Lia had gone, as he hadn’t seen her over the last two days. Maybe the song was insulting to her?

“Doc, are you okay?” Lia asked from the doorway.

Blinking in surprise, he gave her a relieved smile. “No… I mean, yes. I was just wondering if I’d upset you somehow, was all.”

Lia stared at him for a moment before her lips tugged up at the corners. “No, I’m not upset with you. I had things to do. I’m sorry. It struck me that you wouldn’t know. You’ve only been here a short time, but it feels like so much longer.”

“Okay. I was worried the song had insulted you.”

“No, it was very good. Fitting, in this time and place, and it made Cassia happy. I was visiting my family.”

Doc stopped himself from asking, but his confusion was clear.

“Their graves,” she clarified for him. “This marks the anniversary of the days they passed.”

“My condolences, Lia.”

Lia bobbed her head. “Thank you.”

“What are the customs for that? If it’s okay to ask?”

Lia gave him a soft smile as she entered the room and took a seat. “Traditions vary from tribe to tribe, but my tribe would spend the day at the grave, speaking with them. Sometimes, we’d take herbs to help us find clarity as we did so. It’s a way to seek their wisdom and unburden ourselves at the same time.”

“That reminds me,” Doc said, changing the topic slightly, “does the Moondew help stop nightmares?”

“From killing the people you have, you mean?”

“Yes. I would’ve expected a nightmare or two because of it. I’m not a coldblooded killer, but I expected something to happen.”

“Do you regret having to do what you did?” Lia asked.

“No. It was them or me at the time… well, them or a friend, in Wenn’s case. I’d do it again if I had to.”

“Then there is no reason for nightmares,” Lia shrugged. “Without the drink, you probably would. Many do. Moondew calms and clarifies the emotions that trouble you. You don’t feel guilty, and you shouldn’t, so there is nothing to terrorize your mind.”

“Damn useful drink,” Doc said.

“The nectar of the dryads can be used in a few ways,” Lia said. “The most common is the Moondew. I’m doing my best to refine what you brought me, but I’m not my grandmother, so it might not be as potent as it should be.”

“What else can it be used for?” Doc asked.

Lia’s lips thinned for a moment. “Causing forgetfulness. Depending on how strong you make it, you can wipe someone’s mind completely. That was a shaman secret and is now lost, unless one of the last few wrote it down, which would be abhorrent.”

“Yeah, I can see why.”

“The last one was a poison,” Lia said. “Potent in its effectiveness. It deadens the nerves wherever it touches. If taken into the lungs, it’ll stop someone from breathing. That was also a shaman secret, but I know some tribes had stockpiled it during our conflicts with the government.”

“Anesthetic,” Doc murmured.

“What’s that?”

“A type of medicine in my old world that did the same thing. It was commonly used during surgery to stop a patient from feeling pain during an operation.”

“So one wouldn’t feel their leg being removed? Yes, I can see where that would be useful, but the nerves do come back to life. Wouldn’t that just delay that pain?”

“Not that I know of. I wasn’t a doctor, so I don’t have all the answers. Sorry.”

“No call for apologies,” Lia said. “Have you needed anything from me over the last few days?”

“Nothing specific, but I was wondering— would you recommend that the women learn how to handle firearms?”

Lia gave Doc a flat look, then shook her head. “Again, I have to remind myself that you don’t know any better.”

“Know what?” Doc asked.

“I’ve told you my old name.”

“Death Flower,” Doc replied, saying the word in Elvish.

“I’ve taken more lives than you have lived years. I think that anyone who might see danger should train to protect themselves and those they love. I’ll train them.”

“Okay. Once they finish learning horses, I’d like it if they could at least get a basic knowledge of how to handle the pistol and rifle I have in my room.”

“I can take them out for a small trip to test their riding abilities and train them in firearms while we’re out. Three or four days should do the trick. It would also let me greet an old friend.”

Doc smiled. “I’m sure Rosa would enjoy seeing you.”

“I hope so,” Lia replied. “Zava should be done with them in another few days. I’ll take them out, then. You’ll have to hold down the Lily while I’m away.”

“We didn’t have any trouble with you gone the last few days,” Doc said.

“But I was only at the cliffs, then,” Lia said. “I could’ve been back in a few hours if I was really needed.”

“Ah, I see. It’ll be fine,” Doc said.

“I do hope so,” Lia said, rising to her feet. “I need to prepare for the tournament. Are you going to join this one?”

“The hundred dollar buy-in? I’ll pass. The money isn’t what I need and it makes it better for the others. I need to go see Blackbeard, as it is.”

“Getting a new gun?” Lia asked.

“Got a new gun,” Doc said, tapping the grip of the pistol on his hip. “I have him engraving my derringer.”

Lia looked at the pistol with a sharp eye. “Stun?”

“Yeah. Even a graze can knock them out for a moment, which is enough for me.”

“Fitting for you,” Lia nodded.

“Thanks,” Doc said as they walked toward the door. Opening it, he motioned her to leave. “Ladies first.”

“Gallant, as always,” Lia smiled as she exited.

Doc watched her go and appreciated her outfit. She’d stuck with pants and shirt the last few times he’d seen her, and her pants did a great job, in his mind. Looking up, he found her knowing eyes watching him and he chuckled, giving her a small shrug.

Lia just shook her head as she went to her room.

~*~*~

Doc buttoned his jacket when he stepped outside— the wind was blowing and while it didn’t have the same bite as before, it was still chilly. Making his way to Blackbeard’s, Doc looked at the gray-clouded sky. Going to rain, smells like.

“Morning, Blackbeard,” Doc greeted the gunsmith. “How’re you?”

“Doc? I’m well. I have your gun ready for you. Give me a moment.” Blackbeard went into the back for less than a minute, then came back carrying Doc’s derringer. “Here we are.”

Taking the gun, Doc was glad it was open, as checking to make sure it was empty was easier. The first engraving that Blackbeard had added wove around the entire grip. A second one was entwined down the barrels. “What did you manage on it?”

“When gripped, the gun will briefly be invisible. It’ll only be a few seconds at most, but that should be enough for you to draw and look innocuous enough to get a good shot. That engraving is really only good for holdout guns, and that is the most well-known holdout.”

“True,” Doc nodded. “What about the second?”

“That’s the thing...” Blackbeard said slowly. “It shouldn’t be there. Guns can only hold a single engraving. When I finished the one for the grip, I... felt like I could add the second one. I was shocked when it worked. God gifts... they must break normal conventions.”

“Maybe. What does it do?” Doc prompted him gently.

“Oh, sorry. Same as your pistol— stun. Thought you’d prefer it.”

“I do. Thank you,” Doc said as he loaded the derringer and slipped it into his vest pocket.

“Don’t thank me,” Blackbeard said. “It was an honor to work on. I could almost feel a presence watching me while I worked. I said a prayer to Luck when I finished.”

“Thank you for that, then,” Doc said. “The more people who believe, the better.”

“As you say, Shaman,” Blackbeard nodded. “Been hearing of your help for the clan. That first decision caused some concern among the older members of the clan, but the others helped settle them down.”

“Too progressive?” Doc asked.

“A bit unusual,” Blackbeard hedged. “Word of you healing Creager is also going around. He’s a salty one— refuses to give you any kindness, but his wife is singing your praises.”

“I’m glad she’s happy, at least,” Doc said. “I don’t understand him. He’d be dead if I hadn’t helped.”

Blackbeard shrugged. “Some are steeped in old ways. Comes with not going out much. I had to travel to learn my trade, and it helped me see things from a wider perspective.”

“I wish more did,” Doc said. “I’m glad things are going well for the clan.”

“Me, too. Your next load of ore should be coming in today, shouldn’t it?”

“In theory,” Doc said. “We’ll have to see what the day brings. I just hope they didn’t break an axle this time.”

“That’d be bad luck,” Blackbeard laughed. “Your goddess should keep that away from you.”

“She can’t protect me all the time, and I’m also not there,” Doc replied. “She’s not all powerful, just very powerful.”

“Fair enough,” Blackbeard conceded. “Wouldn’t want a god that put me in a bubble, either. Hard to grow if you don’t have hardships.”

“True,” Doc grinned. “Have a good day. I’m going to get back before it starts to rain.”

“Smart. Good day, Doc.”

Chapter Thirty-eight

Doc was back at the Lily when he heard the gunshots. Sprinting for the door, Doc’s mind spun with all the possibilities of who could’ve been shot.

“Someone get Whittaker!” a growling voice shouted. “And the undertaker!”

When Doc burst into the room, both deputies turned on him, guns already drawn. Doc held up his hands. “What happened?”

“Cheater was called out and took exception,” Fido said. “He drew and shot at the accuser, who tried to do the same. Cheater hit his mark clean, but the accuser fired twice, getting the cheater and… well, Joey wasn’t lucky.”

Doc suddenly understood why he said that when Fido moved back to show who he’d been helping. Joey was holding his gut, a rag held in place, but blood was leaking out around it. He was pale, his face contorted in pain as he breathed quickly and shallowly.

“Move!” Doc said firmly as he went to a knee beside Fido, who shifted away for him. “Joey?”

“Doc… it hurts…” Joey wheezed.

“Yeah, I’m sure it does,” Doc said softly. “Lady Luck, help my friend.” Ignoring the shocked gasps and expressions all around him when his hands began to glow, Doc pulled the towel away and put his hand directly on the exposed flesh next to the wound. The blood stopped flowing first, followed by the vile remnants of what could’ve caused an infection. When it was clean and the bowels were healed, the skin began to knit together.

Taking his hands away when the wound was healed, Doc felt a hint of tiredness touch him. “How’re you feeling now?”

Joey just stared at Doc with shock.

“Can I get some hot water, soap, and a towel?” Doc asked. He stayed where he was, his hands dripping blood and filth.

“Coming!” Posy shouted as she hurried to go get what he asked for.

“What was that?” Spot asked from a few feet away.

“Faith healing,” Doc said, looking up at the deputy. “Luckily, this is a house of worship.”

“It is?” a shocked voice interjected into the near silence.

“To Lady Luck, my patron goddess,” Doc said. “Where else should one offer up prayers of Luck but inside a gambling hall?”

“Grange doesn’t know,” Fido said.

“It’s recorded with the clerk,” Doc said.

“Thank you for saving him,” Lia said from the bar. “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ll be taking a break now while we get the room back into order. Play will resume in an hour.”

No one moved, as everyone was still staring at Doc.

Posy came rushing out of the back with a bucket of steaming water, a few rags, and a bar of soap. “I’ve got them.”

“Thank you, Posy,” Doc said kindly. “Joey, you’re a bit of a mess. Go use the bathroom and clean up some. Jasmine, can you get one of my shirts for him to change into, please?”

“Yes, sir,” Jasmine said, hurrying away.

Doc cleaned his hands first before he thanked Posy, who got to work cleaning the floor as soon as he finished. “Make sure to clean your own hands when you’re done, Posy, and make sure that bucket and your clothes get thoroughly cleaned. We don’t want people getting sick.”

“Yes, Doc.”

Getting to his feet, he looked at the still unmoving crowd. “I’m Doc Holyday, and yes, my name does tell you all about me. I can heal, using faith magic that comes from Lady Luck, a goddess who wants to see this world thrive. Some of you might not accept what I’m saying. Others will still disbelieve, even with what just happened, and that’s fine. You have to make up your own minds on what is true and what is not.”

The crowd stirred, but no one spoke.

“I’ll help anyone, regardless of your lineage. The only ones I won’t help are the people who refuse to believe in Lady Luck. Her power is taxing on me, but I do my best to help everyone who needs it. It just might take me a day to be able to channel her divine presence to help you.”

“But if you’re favored by Luck, how do you lose at cards?” someone finally asked.

“Because she can only do so much any given day,” Doc replied. “Gods and goddesses didn’t abandon this world; they were driven out by lack of faith. I’m here to help bring faith to my goddess so she can do more to save the world itself.”

“Bullshit!” a man snapped, shoving forward to get within three feet of Doc. “The church will see you burned, heretic!”

Doc exhaled sadly. “Even those who have no faith are welcome here as long as you don’t cause trouble. The church and I will no doubt be having words in the future.”

The man had started to take another step forward, but Fido was suddenly between the two of them. “Take it outside,” Fido growled. “Troublemakers will be tossed or arrested.”

“Fucking mutt!” the man spat.

The distinctive click of a hammer being drawn back drew all eyes to Spot. “My brother told you the rules. Abide, or we’ll have another reason to need the undertaker.”

The man went white, then red, before he stomped around Fido and out the door.

“My establishment is open to everyone. Bigotry will get you tossed,” Lia said firmly. “Now, there is a break for the tournament. Play will resume in an hour, and if you’re not back, you will forfeit your entry.”

~*~*~

Lia caught up to him in the dining room. “Well, that puts it all out in the open.”

“Yeah... preacher’s definitely going to come for me now.”

“You knew it would happen.”

“In time,” Doc agreed. “This opens the floodgates. I’d half-hoped to take them on one-by-one. Now Suez, Goodman, and McIan will likely help each other. Add in the normal idiots who don’t want to see change… this could get very messy, very quickly.”

Lia took a seat beside him. “It could. What if it does? Will you run?”

Doc snorted. “She didn’t pick me because I was afraid of things. Luck chose me because I keep pushing forward into the worst life can throw at me.”

“The worst is to have your family killed and your lands taken,” Lia said softly.

“I can’t begin to imagine, Lia. I never had family, nor a place to call home. I never let it stop me. I just kept pushing on.”

“Your song… is it from your old world?”

“Yeah. A powerful song for those who need a bright spot to hold onto.”

“Doc,” Lia said softly and placed her hand on his, “the whole world needs a hero. You’re our last chance. You won’t be facing them alone, either. You have your allies and friends.”

Doc nodded, looking at her hand on his. “It’s different. I’ve always been alone, but now I have friends, two wives, and a place I want to call home. I find that even more daunting. If I fuck up, it’s not just me that will pay, but the people I care about.”

“Yes, it is difficult,” Lia agreed. “But there’s only one way to truly fail.”

“To give up. Yeah. You have my back?”

Lia gave his hand a squeeze. “This is my home, and you’ve helped restore it to me. I will have your back.”

Doc calmed when she said that. “Thank you, Lillianna.”

“You’re welcome, Mr. Holyday.”

Doc laughed. “Okay, that’s too formal for me.”

“I prefer Lia, but an occasional use of my full name is fine.”

“Noted.”

“Doc, come quick!” Ivan shouted, bursting into the room. “Rangvald’s been shot!”

Doc was on his feet instantly. “Where?”

“The bank! With the wagon!” Ivan gasped, winded from running to get him.

Doc was out the door as quickly as he could run. His blood felt as cool as the rain falling on him. He could see the dwarves by the wagon— a number of them looked wary and were holding guns, ready for use. Two of them had bandages on their arms, damp with blood.

“Rangvald!?” Doc barked as he got closer.

“Back here!” one of the dwarves shouted from the rear of the wagon.

Doc found Rangvald laying in the back. He was white and wheezing, his eyes glassy. “Fucking hell,” Doc grimaced when he saw the three gunshot wounds in Rangvald’s chest. Not saying a thing, he summoned healing hands and pressed them onto Rangvald’s chest.

Rangvald gasped when Doc’s energy hit his body. His eyes shifted, as if looking for him. “Doc…? Ambushed… s-sorry.”

“Shut it!” Doc snarled as he poured all he could into the dwarf. “I’ll hear it when you can look me in the eye.”

Rangvald’s eyes rolled up and he slumped over. Doc grimaced, but didn’t relent.

“Left pocket!” Doc snapped. “Feed it to him!”

The dwarf who’d been there pulled the vial clear of Doc’s pocket and quickly poured it into Rangvald’s mouth, rubbing his Adam’s apple as he did. “We got ambushed. Five men, all dead, three hours ago. They hit him first, and we made them pay for it. We came as fast as we could.”

Doc ignored him, entirely focused on Rangvald. Heart and his lungs are safe, but his liver, stomach, and spleen all got it. Need to close the stomach first... keep as much inside as possible. Then his liver and spleen.

Doc felt his energy bottom out and his vitality start to drain as he kept pushing to heal Rangvald. More voices came close, shouting and angry, but Doc ignored them. He had a task, and he’d see it done.

Woozy and eyes trying to close, Doc knew he’d stopped the worst of it, but Rangvald wasn’t out of danger. Need to push a little more...

The heavy hand that gripped his shoulder ripped him away from Rangvald. “Unlicensed healing outside of a house of worship? That’s a crime!” Grange snarled. “You’ll be coming with me.”

Doc tried to refute his words, but his eyes wouldn’t focus and he couldn’t form the words he needed.

“Grange, you can’t arrest him,” Lia’s voice penetrated his fog-addled mind.

“Lia, you stay out of this!” Grange snapped. “He committed a crime right in front of me. He’s under arrest.”

“You can’t do that!” Ivan shouted. “He’s saving Rangvald!”

“A crime is a crime!” Grange spat. “Now, back down! Deputies, if anyone tries to stop me, shoot them.”

Fido and Spot both grimaced as they reluctantly drew guns. “Stay back, please,” Fido said.

“All of you, stand down,” Lia said grimly. “Just let the sheriff take him. We’ll deal with it. Ivan, feed this to Rangvald. I’m sure he’s not done being healed, yet.”

“Lia, I—” Doc began trying to turn to find her.

“Don’t resist!” Grange snarled.

A sharp pain crashed into Doc’s head and darkness claimed him.

Chapter Thirty-nine

Doc felt woozy when he came to. He’d had odd dreams— bits and flashes that all seemed so real: Lia calling out for him to stay strong. Worried dwarven voices wondering if he’d be okay. Spot and Fido carrying him down the street, softly whispering that they were sorry. Iron bars and a moldy cot in an unpleasant room. Fiala, Sonya, and Ayla all calling to him with worried faces from behind the bars.

Sitting up, his head throbbed, and Doc gingerly touched the back of his skull. He found a tender spot that had swollen up to the size of an egg. “What happened?” he asked the air as his vision swam, then shivered as if freezing.

“Oh, the guy in number two is awake,” a crass voice laughed. “Pissed off the sheriff, is my guess. Haven’t seen Grange smiling like that in months. The dogs seemed unhappy, though.”

“Fido and Spot,” Doc corrected the man without thinking. “Not dogs.” Shuddering again, Doc tried to think, but his brain felt like congealed oatmeal.

“Right,” the man laughed. “With those names, they know they’re dogs, and so does everyone else.”

Head throbbing as the man laughed, Doc mumbled, “Fuck off, idiot. Lady, my head hurts.” Another shudder made his head pound harder, and he sneezed, adding more pain to his life. Triggering healing hands, Doc sighed in relief as the pain faded, and the incipient cold he had was killed.

“Guard! Guard! Come quick!” the man shouted.

“What the hell is it, Chuck?” a deeper, older voice asked crossly.

“He used magic!” Chuck said. “He’s a mage.”

The jailer looked at Doc, whose hands were still glowing. “Well, fuck me sideways.” The distinctive click of a hammer being drawn back came just before he spoke again, “Mage, stop it right now, or I’ll have to stop you.”

Doc let the power fade, thankfully feeling better already. “I was just fixing my head. I didn’t mean to startle you.” Looking up, he saw an older man with gray hair staring at him with his single blue eye.

“Damned deputies should’ve warned me that you were a mage.”

“I’m not a mage,” Doc clarified. “I’m a faith healer.”

“Oh, that explains it,” the man said as he eased the hammer down and holstered his gun. “Judge will be seeing you soon.”

“Same day trial?” Doc asked.

The jailer snickered. “You’ve been out since they brought you in. It’s tomorrow morning to you.”

“Glad I survived the major concussion,” Doc said tightly, holding his anger in. “Is there breakfast?”

The jailer laughed. “Only if you’re here for dinner.”

Doc met the jailer’s single eye. “I won’t be. I don’t even recall why I’m here.”

“Happens with head injuries,” the jailer snorted. “Just don’t do no more funny stuff.”

“Oh, come on, Alton. He used magic! You should put the special manacles on him,” Chuck grinned. “Been ages since you used them.”

Doc looked over at Chuck, finding a man of middle years who was the very definition of town drunk. “Special manacles?”

Alton shook his head. “He’s not a mage, just some deluded fool who thinks gods are real, Chuck. Now, pipe down.”

Doc looked at the cell he was in and grimaced. “Shithole” described it well. The iron bars that blocked the way out were slightly pitted, and the floor had been scuffed repeatedly where it wasn’t covered in damp straw. The pile Doc had been on looked even worse, and he nearly vomited when he caught sight of the dead rat where he’d been laying.

I so need a bath when I get out of here, Doc thought with a shudder.

“So, what’d you do?” Chuck asked with a smirk. “Alton won’t hear us unless we raise our voices, so be frank with me.”

“I can’t be frank with you,” Doc said, giving the drunk a glance. “I’m Doc, not Frank.”

The drunk frowned as he tried to puzzle out what Doc said.

“You’re an ass,” Chuck sneered. “No idea what those three bitches see in you. Well, besides a human who’ll stoop to their level. Even I wouldn’t go dicking a cat, dwarf, and breed.”

Doc’s eyes twitched, but he just turned his back on Chuck as he continued to look over the room.

“Will they cry when you get found guilty?” Chuck snickered. “Maybe I’d give the breed a chance, at least.”

Doc wondered if the concussion might not have been better than listening to Chuck.

“Are her ears as sensitive as an elf’s? I hear those pointy-eared harlots can get off just by having their points nibbled, and I’m not talking about their nipples, either,” Chuck brayed.

The scuff of boots coming their way made Chuck stifle his laughter. Alton was there a moment later with a grin.

“Holyday, come here.”

Doc moved to the bars. “Yes?”

“Hands,” Alton demanded, tapping the food slot in the middle of the door with a finger.

Doc pushed his hands through the slot and watched as Alton locked the manacles on his wrists. Once he was locked up, Alton unlocked the door and pulled Doc from the cell. Stumbling a step, as he hadn’t expected to be moved so roughly, Doc almost fell, but managed to catch himself on the far wall.

“Walk,” Alton snapped. “Down the hall.”

Doc turned and walked before he could be encouraged to do so. When he came to an open doorway, he saw Grange waiting for him. The sheriff watched him with a smirk.

“Grange,” Doc said stiffly as pieces of memory floated back to him.

“Holyday. I told you I’d be there to arrest you when you fucked up,” Grange snickered.

Doc met the large man’s eyes. “Just happened to be nearby when a friend of mine was bleeding to death?”

“Are you implying something?” Grange asked menacingly.

Doc shook his head and stopped walking a couple of feet from the sheriff.

Grange snorted and looked at Alton. “He’s signed for. I’m taking him up now. Should have him back down in a couple of minutes. It’s an open and shut crime.”

Alton shrugged. “Sure, sure. I’ll be here, as always.”

Doc caught sight of the cot in a corner of the room, as well as a heavily-locked chest under it. “Where are my things?”

“Be quiet!” Grange said, cuffing Doc in the back of the head.

Doc winced, but since Grange wasn’t holding a pistol this time, he didn’t collapse.

“They’re locked up for now, and if the judge lets you go, you can come claim them,” Alton said. “Until then, get him out of my lockup.”

Grange grabbed Doc by the left bicep with bruising force and pulled him toward the thick wooden door on the far wall. “If you don’t walk, I’ll make you walk,” Grange told him.

Doc did his best to move quickly, giving Grange little chance to manhandle him. Up a short flight of stairs, Doc found himself behind a building. Forced through a door nearby, Doc knew where he was a moment later, as the double doors of the courtroom were just ahead of him.

There was a commotion coming from behind those doors, and when Grange opened one, Doc smiled. The courtroom was packed with his friends and allies. At the front of the viewing area, his wives stood side by side with Ayla, Lia, and surprisingly, Sophia.

“Grange, this had better be good,” the judge said sternly. “This circus has been waiting here for nearly an hour.”

“My deputies should’ve given you the charges,” Grange said, giving Spot a hard look.

“I have the charge,” Bero said, “but I don’t have any damned statements.”

Grange gave the room a hard look. “I was going to tell the court when I brought him up. I didn’t expect this.”

“You should have,” Lia said.

“Order!” Bero snapped, pounding his gavel. “I’ll hold people in contempt if they speak out of turn. Even you.”

Lia stared at the judge for a moment before she bowed her head.

“Bring the accused forward,” Bero said. “We’ll read the charge and hear his plea.”

Grange brought Doc a few feet from the judge. “I have Doc Holyday here for illegal healing, your honor.”

“Holyday, you’ve heard the charge. How do you plead?”

“Your honor,” Sophia said quickly before Doc could speak, “I’m here on behalf of the accused.”

Bero turned a firm gaze to Sophia. “Miss Sagesse, I’ve warned the room of what would happen if someone spoke out of turn.”

“But you never asked if he had legal counsel, and he does: me.”

Bero blinked. “I see. Holyday, is Sophia Sagesse your counsel?”

“Yes,” Doc said simply. Having seen her with the others, he was certain one of them had set this up.

“Very well. Counsel, did you have a plea to enter on behalf of your client?”

Sophia moved through the gate and came to stand beside Doc. “He is innocent, your honor.”

Grange barked a laugh. “Innocent? I caught him breaking the law myself!”

“Sheriff,” Bero said stiffly, “you’ll get your chance. Just wait.” Clearing his throat, Bero looked at the full room. “A plea of innocence has been entered. Take your seats. Sheriff, you may take the box first.”

Sophia guided Doc to the table near the audience on the right half of the room. “I’ll handle this, Doc,” she said softly. “I’ve already heard the story.”

Doc gave her a smile and whispered, “Thank you.”

Grange took a seat in the box to the judge’s left and raised his left hand. “I swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, or may Apoc strike me down.”

“Very good,” Bero said. “Take your time and tell us what happened.”

“I was doing a round through the town and it began to rain. Not wanting to deal with it, I was heading back to my office. As I got closer to the bank, I saw the accused, Holyday, at the back of a wagon. His hands were glowing green and, when I got closer, I saw that the injured dwarf in the back of the wagon was healing. Knowing Holyday isn’t a licensed healer, as only Doctor Whittaker is, I moved to stop him from breaking the law.”

“I note there’d been a second charge, Sheriff,” Bero said when Grange paused. “It was retracted by yourself. Why?”

“Holyday tried to pull away from me and I had to subdue him,” Grange said. “He went down hard. His friends,” Grange gestured at the crowd, “argued that he’d just been surprised and my strike might’ve done significant damage. I dropped the charge to mollify them that I was just doing my job.”

“I see. Did he, or did he not, resist?” Bero pressed Grange.

“I felt that he did,” Grange said.

“The court is adding a charge of resisting arrest to the accused,” Bero said. “How does the accused plead to the new charge?”

“Innocent, as he never should’ve been arrested to begin with, making the new charge moot,” Sophia replied with a clipped tone.

Bero stared at her again. “Miss Sagesse, you would do well to remember your tone when addressing the court.”

“I am doing my best, but when a false arrest leads to charges, it becomes difficult.”

Grange got to his feet. “Are you accusing me of something?”

Sophia gave him a small smile. “Of course not, Sheriff. Everyone can make mistakes.”

Bero banged his gavel. “Order! Sheriff, is there anything else to add?”

“No, your honor.”

“You may step down, but do not go far.”

“Yes, your honor.”

Once Grange was sitting at the other table, Bero turned to Sophia. “Did you have anything to bring before the court?”

“I have a few people to make statements,” Sophia replied. “Elder Becker, would you take the stand, please?”

Elder Becker stood up from the crowd. Doc’s eyebrows rose slightly when he saw her, as she was wearing chainmail with leather underneath it. Various decorations dotted the ensemble that Doc had a feeling spoke volumes to those who knew them.

Bero sat up straighter when he saw the elder. Lips pursed, he waited for her to take the stand. “Elder Becker, do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, or may Apoc strike you down?”

“I swear.”

“Very well,” Bero said, still looking a bit apprehensive. “What did you wish to tell the court in regard to this case?”

“It’s more a question, your honor,” Becker said flatly. “Why have you arrested our shaman for saving the life of one of ours? Do you mean to open old wounds and declare war on the clan?”

Bero’s eyes shot open wide. “Shaman?”

“That’s what I said. Holyday is one of us— a full member of the clan, recognized by the elders and accepted by the clan as our shaman. As such, he’s allowed to heal as he sees fit, in regards to the clan or its allies, regardless of where he is at the time.”

“When did he become the fucking shaman!?” Grange roared as his chair went backward into the small wall and his hands slammed down on the table.

“When he married Sonya Holyday née Redblade. That very night, he was accepted as shaman.”

“But he isn’t a dwarf,” Grange growled.

“He passed the Rite of Heriz and married into the clan,” Becker said with a vicious smile. “According to our laws, he is a dwarf as surely as I am, even if he is too tall.”

“Order!” Bero called out, finally recovering from his shock. “Elder has his… position been documented?”

“I sent the special messenger off that very night. He is legally our shaman, and that paperwork has been filed with the capital. Even now, it should be on its way east to the national records department.”

Grange was seething as he glared at Becker. “Why was I never informed?”

Becker gave Grange a smile. “Because, Sheriff, you aren’t part of the clan. There was no reason for us to inform you.”

“Who was the injured party?” Bero asked angrily.

“Rangvald Oresmelter,” Becker said.

“Your honor?” Sophia asked, raising her hand.

“What is it, Sagesse!?” Bero barked at her.

“I thought you might want to know that Rangvald was injured when his wagon was attacked on the way into town with a delivery to the bank. The men who attacked the wagon— while they’re all dead, having been killed in self-defense— had all been before you in the last year.”

Bero blinked slowly. “Oh?”

“Their bodies are with the undertaker now,” Sophia replied. “All of them had violent crimes on their records, in case you were wondering how he had come to be injured.”

“And what of him?” Bero asked frostily. “Holyday supposedly healed him.”

“I’m here, your honor,” Rangvald said, standing up. “Because the sheriff pulled Holyday away, the last of my injuries had to be healed via concoctions from Henrick. If he’d been allowed to finish, the clan wouldn’t be out so much money right now.”

“We’ll be asking the sheriff to reimburse those costs once he’s been shown to have falsely arrested Holyday,” Becker said.

Bero exhaled slowly, closing his eyes, and rubbed the bridge of his nose. “I see. Holyday, the charges are being dropped. However, since you are a shaman, you may only heal those associated with the clan, as the law states.”

Sophia cleared her throat. “Your honor?”

“What?”

“The law doesn’t state that. It merely states that the clan or tribe are responsible for the shaman’s healing.”

“Miss Sagesse, thank you,” Bero said with gritted teeth. “Now, since the charges are dismissed, all of you can leave. Grange, I’ll see you in my office. Elder Becker, you, too.” Slamming his gavel onto his desk, Bero snapped, “Case dismissed!”

The moment those words left Bero’s mouth, the crowd cheered loudly. Fiala, Sonya, and Ayla went over the small wall to get to Doc. Fiala and Sonya hit him hard as they hugged him tightly, and Ayla stopped next to Sophia and fidgeted.

“Sorry for worrying you both,” Doc said, kissing their heads. Looking over them at Ayla, he gave her a smile. “Sophia was your idea?”

“Yes,” Ayla said. “I knew you’d need someone, and she’s trained in the law.”

“You really are amazing,” Doc said. “Thank you. Thank you, too, Sophia. Bero is probably going to hold this against you.”

Sophia smiled. “It doesn’t matter. I’m no longer the records clerk in town. I am the legal counsel for Luck’s Holdings.”

“We have a lot to talk about, then,” Doc said.

“Later,” Fiala said firmly as she tightened her grip on him. “Later...”

“Later,” Doc agreed. “Lia, thank you for your help. My memory is a little fuzzy, but you got the dwarves not to attack Grange, didn’t you?”

Lia gave him a bob of her head. “Bloodshed there would’ve made things worse.”

“Indeed. Shall we go have breakfast or lunch?” Doc asked as his stomach growled. “I haven’t eaten since breakfast yesterday.”

Chapter Forty

Doc sighed as he sank into the warm water. He’d asked to hold off on food for a few minutes so he could clean up first. The memory of what he’d slept on the previous night wouldn’t allow him to eat before he’d cleaned up.

A soft knock on the door came only a second before Sonya slipped inside. “Doc, do you mind if I help?”

Doc gave her a tired smile. “Not at all. The rules of the house have to be followed, though. No funny business in here.”

“Fiala told me that,” Sonya said as she rolled her dress sleeves up. “I’ll be proper. I just wanted to help.”

“How did you two decide who it would be?” Doc asked, sitting forward in the tub so Sonya could reach his back.

“I asked and she agreed. That was all.”

“Huh, really? That’s nice. I was sure there was some roshambo or something.”

“Ro… what?”

“Rock, paper, scissors?” Doc asked.

“I don’t understand. What do those items have in common?”

Doc chuckled as Sonya scrubbed his back. “Nothing at all really, but as parts of a game, they come together nicely.”

“A game?”

“More a contest, but kids used it to settle small disputes all the time where I grew up.”

“Oh?”

“Rock beats scissors by smashing them, but gets defeated by paper, which can cover it, and scissors can cut paper. It’s a closed-loop of what beats what.”

“What if both of them play the same thing?”

“A tie, so they play again.”

“Which gives a winner. I see. That’s very helpful. What kind of disputes were settled with this?”

“Almost anything for a kid. Their place in line, who gets to go first in another game,” Doc explained as he stood up so Sonya could get his legs. “Hell, a court in my old world once used it to settle a civil case. Florida is weird that way.”

Sonya smiled as she listened to him, her hands gliding the soap over his skin. “It does sound like a very interesting place. My uncle would love to go there. All of his theories could be proven.”

“Yeah. Steam led the way for years. If I’d been an engineer or mechanic, I’d give him some insights, but that was never my thing. The idea of pushing technology further in a less advanced world was a key point in a lot of stories.”

“You’re ready to rinse,” Sonya said as she rinsed the suds off her hands and went to dry them. “We’ll be waiting for you.”

“I’ll be out quickly,” Doc assured her. “And Sonya... thank you. I’m sorry for worrying you both.”

Sonya gave him a smile. “It’s okay. Now we know that Grange is going to be a problem, too. Unfortunately, the election for sheriff isn’t up for another year.”

“Another bump in the road,” Doc said. “We’ll deal with him, too.”

Making it to the dining room a few minutes later, Doc gave the women a smile, including Sophia. “Sorry for the delay, but that cell was filthy. I had to get clean before I could even think of eating.”

“Schmidt doesn’t take good care of the place,” Lia said, “and Goodman doesn’t care about how clean it is.”

“Brunch,” Posy announced as she pushed a cart into the room.

Doc’s stomach rumbled loudly when the scent of food hit his nose, and he began to drool a little. “Thank your mother for me, Posy?”

“I will. I’m glad you’re okay, Doc,” Posy said as she put his plate in front of him. “Lia said it’d be okay, though, so I never worried.”

“She was right, thankfully,” Doc said as he picked up his fork and began to eat.

Everyone focused on their food, as none of them had had breakfast— they’d all wanted to make sure they were at the courthouse for Doc.

~*~*~

Pushing his empty plate away, Doc drained the last of his second cup of coffee. “That’s better.”

“Your cook is very talented,” Sophia told Lia.

“Thank you,” Lia smiled.

“Sophia,” Doc said, “thank you for your help. I had no idea we were recruiting you for the team.”

Ayla cleared her throat. “You wanted someone who was proficient with law. Sophia has her diploma to practice law in any territory of the country. Her family is known for being entwined with the legal system.”

Sophia gave Doc a tentative smile. “Ayla did say you would agree to me having the position. If you don’t—”

“Welcome aboard,” Doc said, cutting her off. “Without you, the judge might’ve found a way to twist things. I’m very grateful. If you take this position, is it going to cause problems with your mother?”

“No,” Sophia shook her head. “We both feel indebted for your help with my father and finding out why he died. I also think what you’re doing is admirable. You help people, without regard to their heritage, when so few people will look beyond the superficial.”

“Some do, many don’t,” Lia agreed.

“Did the bank and smelters get the ore?” Doc asked, recalling that Rangvald had been ambushed bringing a wagonload in.

“Yes, but the bank is, yet again, unable to cover the amount,” Ayla said.

“Not surprising,” Doc snorted. “I was glad to hear Rangvald is okay. Need to talk to him about preventive measures.”

“He’s already aware,” Lia said. “They hadn’t expected an ambush so soon. There won’t be a repeat of this incident, but there are likely to be other, much bloodier affairs in the future. The money being moved will draw the people who are prepared to lose allies for the potential gain.”

“That’s not surprising,” Doc sighed. “Rangvald’s ready for that?”

“Yes, as is the clan,” Sonya said. “More of the extended clan and a few representatives of some other clans have arrived. They’ll be going with Rangvald tomorrow. They wanted to speak with you first, though, to meet the shaman.”

“Guess I should be ready for that,” Doc said. “Sophia, did Ayla tell you what we’re looking to do?”

“Yes. I’ll be working on the correct forms to make sure everything goes as you want it to.” Sophia fell silent for a second before she added, “Doc, about the dryad... You know that none of them are collared willingly, right?”

“Rosa will,” Doc said. “She’s already agreed to it.”

“‘Begged’ is the right word,” Fiala said primly.

Sophia blinked at them, then shook her head. “Okay. I’ll draw up the paperwork, but you’ll need to get a collar.”

“I already sent for one,” Ayla said. “Might take a little while to get here, but it was paid for already.”

“Thank you, Ayla,” Doc said. “On a separate note, once you three are done with your horse training, Lia is going to show you how to handle guns. I want you to know the basics so you can at least have a chance to defend yourself or help us in a prolonged firefight.”

Sonya nodded, but Fiala and Ayla looked a little unsure.

“Does that include me?” Sophia asked. “I only ask since Ayla is involved, and she isn’t one of your wives.”

“Anyone who goes with us,” Doc said. “That’d include you. Do you know how to ride?”

Sophia shook her head. “Horses refuse to let me on them. My… feet are the problem.”

Doc recalled her bird-like feet and nodded. “Coaches and wagons?”

“Yes. I’m sorry,” Sophia said. “Maybe I shouldn—”

“No, it’s fine. We’ll have supplies to take with us, so it’ll work. Can you drive a wagon?”

“No,” Sophia said. “I’d be willing to learn, though.”

“That can be arranged,” Lia said. “I’ll talk with Zava about it,” she added to Doc.

“Thank you, Lia.”

“When do you want to speak with the clan representatives?” Sonya asked.

“Tonight would be best,” Doc said. “After dinner? Or can Daf pull off a big meal for tonight?”

Posy had been coming into the room when he asked, so she bolted down the hall, her words trailing behind her, “I’ll ask!”

“Guess we’ll find out in a moment,” Doc laughed.

“Are you up to it?” Fiala asked. “You’ve had a rough day.”

Doc leaned over and kissed her cheek. “I know, but it needs to be done. I have to make connections for later. This will be dinner and some questions, so I should be fine.”

“Other tribes will want to meet you, too,” Lia added, “once you leave this town.”

“How’s Joey?” Doc asked, suddenly recalling the injured man. “He’s fine, too, right?”

“You healed him back to perfect health,” Lia replied. “He has a small pucker scar from the wound, but that’s it.”

“Oh, good,” Doc exhaled. “It’s funny. I took my name based on a character from my old world, twisting it slightly to fit what I’m trying to do here. I couldn’t have picked a better name.”

“Old world?” Sophia asked with puzzlement written on her face.

“Ah, right,” Doc chuckled. “Well, if you’re going to be with us, might as well tell you everything.”

~*~*~

“And that’s my story,” Doc finished.

The others all watched Sophia, who was staring at Doc.

Taking a deep breath, Sophia exhaled slowly. “There are legends... tales of the men and women who used to follow gods. Mostly, those books are seen as heresy and being caught with one can cause trouble, but I’ve read them. All of my family has read them. You might be able to ignore history, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t happen. It’s unfortunate that the winners are the ones who write history, and they never write the truth— they only write what will make them look best.”

“That’s true of my old world, too,” Doc nodded.

Sophia’s orange eyes were intense as they met Doc’s. “I believe you, Doc. I’ve seen what you can do first hand. I’ve heard your voice when you seek to help others.” A soft smile touched her lips. “I would have preferred it more if it were the god or goddess of justice, but Luck will do.”

Doc chuckled. “I’m glad she has your approval.”

Sophia blinked, her cheeks going red. “No, that isn’t what I meant.”

“I know,” Doc said kindly. “I’m glad you believe, though. The people closest to me need to, and you’ll be in the thick of what we have to do.”

“Yes. Goodman, Suez, Grange, and the church will all try to pull you down.”

“We won’t let them,” Sonya said, her words as hard as steel.

“No, we won’t,” Fiala agreed grimly.

“His mission must succeed,” Ayla nodded.

“And he is surrounding himself with those who will risk everything to help him,” Lia smiled, but it quickly faded. “Blood, tears, and strife will rip at all of you. Steel your hearts and treasure the love and friendship you have. That’s what will help keep you going.”

“That’s true, Lia,” Doc said. “I have faith, though.”

Lia met his eyes briefly. “I know. I also know the pain you’re likely to see. Excuse me, please.” Standing up, she left the room.

Doc watched her go sadly. The pain he’d seen in her eyes made his heart ache.

“Doc,” Ayla said gently, “we’re with you.”

Sophia nodded. “All change comes at a cost. I understand what this might lead to, but I will not waver.”

“Thank you, ladies,” Doc said, before yawning. “Sonya, can you let the dwarves know that tonight is good, please?”

“Of course, husband,” Sonya said, kissing his cheek. “Dinner, tonight. I’m glad Daf said she could. They’ll enjoy her cooking.”

“I’ll go with her,” Fiala said. “Why don’t you go rest for a bit?” she suggested to Doc, giving him a kiss as she got to her feet.

“Yeah,” Doc said, feeling the lack of any real rest. “That’s a good idea.”

“We’ll get to work on the paperwork,” Ayla said. “I’ll follow up on the money.”

“Thank you, Ayla.”

“I’ll start on the paperwork for Rosa and prepare documents that might come in handy if they try to drag you in for other charges,” Sophia said.

“Thank you, Sophia.”

Both women gave him smiles as they left together.

Alone in the room a few seconds later, Doc yawned again, wondering what the next obstacle would be.

Chapter Forty-one

Doc stirred when soft lips met his briefly. “Hmm?”

“It’s time to wake if you want to meet the representatives,” Sonya said softly.

“Okay,” Doc murmured and pushed the blankets off. With a tremendous yawn, Doc stretched. “Thank you.”

“Of course, husband,” Sonya replied. “Fiala is making sure the dining room is set and ready.”

“Just us three?” Doc asked as he swung his legs out of bed and sat up.

“That was what we thought. This is just a meeting for them to meet the shaman of the clan. They’ve likely heard about you from the elders, already.”

“Which clans? …Not that knowing their names will help me much.”

Sonya handed him his clothing so he could begin dressing. “They’re from the three closest clans to us. The Ironbeard clan is in the capital of the territory. The Molteneyes clan is situated farther northwest of us. There’s a small town starting up there where gold and silver have been found. There’s also the Bronzehammer clan. They’re to the southeast, closer to the border of the first disputed boundary.”

“Disputed boundary?” Doc asked as he dressed.

“Where four territories come together,” Sonya said. “There are two of them in the country, and both touch this state— one to the southeast and the other southwest.”

“I still need to learn a lot about this country and world, and what being a shaman means. I helped a few people with disputes, but there’s more to it than that, right?”

“There is,” Sonya agreed. “I’ll do my best to help as soon as we have time to do so.”

“I haven’t done badly, have I?”

“No, you have done a lot of good. The clan is happy with all of your decisions, even if the first one was radical. The younger women all loved it. It gives us all a chance to look for what we want and not to be held back by old views.”

“Good.”

“The things you need to know for tonight are simple,” Sonya went on. “Ernst Bronzehammer is the representative. He’s the second son of the leading clan elder. For him to be here speaks of how much they want to verify what we’ve said about you.”

“Okay.”

“Karl Ironbeard is the representative of his clan. He’s a cousin to their three current elders and is purported to be brought in as the next elder for their clan. He’s shrewd and hard to read, from what I’ve heard.”

“If they’re in the capital, he’d have to be,” Doc nodded.

“The last of them is Svetlana Molteneyes,” Sonya said with puckered lips. “Her clan comes from the cold east. Their clan only came over to this country in the last generation, when one of them found the mine they’re running while out hunting. The clan is said to be pessimistic and dour, but Svetlana is apparently beautiful and easy to speak with.”

“Dislike her?” Doc asked.

“I have not spoken with her nor seen her. I haven’t heard much of anything good about her, though, either.”

“Always give someone a chance to show you who they are,” Doc said. “After all, I’m sure the church will be slandering the hell out of me shortly.”

Sonya nodded. “That’s fair. I will do my best to give her a chance.”

Doc stood up, finally dressed. “And we can go.”

Sonya stole a quick kiss. “Let’s go.”

~*~*~

Heather gave Doc a grin as she finished up a song. “Busy tonight, Doc?”

“Business dinner,” Doc told her. “Things are likely to be a bit chaotic for me, soon.”

Heather’s smile fell away. “Already?”

“Very likely.”

“I understand. I’ll pray for you.”

“Thank you, Heather. I can write up a couple of songs for you, if you’d like?”

Heather’s smile came blazing back. “Please.”

“I’ll make sure they’re different,” Doc told her before he and Sonya went into the back hall.

“Doc, things are almost ready,” Posy said from the kitchen doorway.

“Thank you, Posy,” Doc smiled. “Are you going to be our server tonight?”

“Yes.”

“Do your best,” Doc said.

“I will,” Posy said as she vanished from view.

“You like her, don’t you?” Sonya asked.

“Yeah. She’s a good girl.”

“Do you hope our daughter will be like her?” Sonya asked, watching him from the corner of her eye.

“Yes. Not sure we’ll be good for kids for some time, but when we do, yeah.”

“Good. I’ll do my best to give you many children.”

“Knowing how determined you can be about things, I have no doubt you’ll manage to make it happen.”

“Everything is set,” Fiala said when they entered the room. “Just our guests and the food left.”

Doc looked at the table setting and whistled softly. “Didn’t know Lia had silver settings.”

“She doesn’t,” Sonya said. “I borrowed these from the clan, along with the glasses and plates.”

“Head out front and wait?” Doc asked.

“I will do so,” Sonya said. “For a formal dinner, it’s best if the wife welcomes them first. You and Fiala can wait here.”

“Okay,” Doc said.

“I’ll be back with them as soon as they show.”

Sonya left the room, leaving Doc and Fiala alone.

“Did you sleep well?” Fiala asked.

“I did. I’m sorry for worrying you.”

Fiala went over to him and slid into his open arms. “It’s alright. I know that these things will happen... I’ll deal with them, and do my best to help you.”

“Is everything okay with you and Sonya?”

“Yes,” Fiala murmured into his chest. “She hasn’t once argued with me. I’m surprised at how well our relationship is going. I’d expected to butt heads with her at least once by now. Even when we disagree, she explains and then leaves the decision up to me. It’s a little nerve-wracking at times, but it also makes me happy that we don’t fight.”

“It’s been nice,” Doc agreed. “It makes me smile seeing you two get along.”

“We’ll do our best to never fight,” Fiala said, leaning back slightly. “May I have a kiss?”

“Gladly,” Doc smiled, kissing her softly.

~*~*~

Doc didn’t know how long they’d waited, but when they knocked, he was ready. He was on his feet when Sonya led the representatives into the room. Doc greeted each of them as they were introduced, shaking hands with the men, and kissing the air over the back of Svetlana’s hand.

Ernst Bronzehammer was dusty-skinned with coal-black hair and eyes. He was also one of the broadest dwarves Doc had seen so far. His muscled arms were thicker than Doc’s thighs, and his handshake was near crushing.

Karl Ironbeard was much lighter in complexion, with brown hair and ocean-blue eyes. His handshake was the firm, polite handshake of the business world. Ironbeard’s tone was polished and smooth, and his eyes gave no sign of what he was thinking.

Svetlana Molteneyes was fair-skinned with icy-blonde hair, but her eyes caught his attention— they were a strange red-black color. She wore a dress that was demure in cut, though it clung to her figure. Her makeup was minimal, besides her ruby-red lips, which focused the attention on her mouth.

“Such a gentleman,” Svetlana smiled, her accent more Russian than German. “Would that more men were as gallant.”

“He’s a gentleman,” Fiala said, greeting Svetlana as she had the two men. “Both Sonya and I are lucky to call him husband.”

Svetlana’s eyebrow rose for a second. “A man who can handle two wives? How interesting.”

“Let’s sit,” Doc said, seating his wives while Ernst did the same for Svetlana. “I’d also suggest we hold conversation until after dinner. Daf is a fabulous cook, and her meals are best when served piping hot.”

~*~*~

Daf turned dinner into a three-course affair, which Doc hadn’t expected. The soup was a thick, potato cream chowder with bacon and cheese. Steak was served alongside steamed vegetables as the main course, and Doc was happy that the dwarves seemed to enjoy it. For dessert, they were served simple apple pastries that had everyone smiling by the time they finished.

“That was different,” Ernst said. “Besides the occasional clan feast, dinner is normally a single plate for us.”

“For us, too, but considering you all, I thought something memorable might be better,” Doc replied.

“It was all very good,” Svetlana smiled. “She is not thinking of leaving, is she?”

Fiala laughed lightly. “No. She’ll never leave the Lily.”

“A pity,” Svetlana sighed.

“It was good,” Karl said. “Now that dinner is done, there’s time to finally speak.”

“Of course,” Doc said. “I had been told you’d all wanted to meet me. What can I do for you?”

“I wanted to see you with my own eyes and take stock of you,” Karl said simply. “A lot of praise has come from the elders of your clan concerning your actions.”

“Oh, there has?” Doc asked. “I didn’t know that.”

“There’s also the matter of your mine,” Karl went on. “Mythrium and soul stone, I’ve been told. I’m looking forward to seeing it.”

“Rangvald will be the one to show you the mine,” Doc said. “He’s the foreman and in charge of the entire site. If you have questions about it, he’d be your best source for information.”

Karl stared at Doc, nodding. “I will talk with him.”

“I’m very interested in the mine,” Ernst said with a grin. “You were the one who found the site and placed the claims, I’ve heard. I’m curious, though— from the bit of rumor I’ve heard, even you didn’t know how rich it was.”

“Honestly, I knew it would be good, but I had no idea it was going to be so rich.”

“And you are purported to be able to heal,” Ernst went on. “You healed Oresmelter after he was shot three times?”

“I did.”

“It has been a long time since we have had a shaman,” Svetlana cut in. “I wonder if you might demonstrate your ability for us?”

Doc gave her a smile. “Is one of you injured?”

“I’m sure one of us will be, if you agree,” Svetlana laughed lightly.

“Okay. Who wants to bleed?” Doc asked.

“I will,” Ernst volunteered, extending his arm to Doc.

Doc picked up an unused knife left from dinner. “Very well.”

Reaching out, Doc made a small gash into Ernst’s forearm. Blood welled up and began to leak from the wound, but Ernst just grunted and watched Doc.

“Lady, please heal this man. Let your power be shown,” Doc said as he triggered healing hands. Doc touched Ernst’s arm and, as he healed the small wound, also found a knot in Ernst’s back. The muscles there were tighter than they should be, so he eased those, too. “There you go.”

Ernst blinked as he wiped the residual blood from his arm and table with a cloth. “My back. You removed the knot?”

“Since I was healing you, I thought getting everything would be good.”

Ernst laughed and slapped the table, which made Fiala wince. “You have the power of a shaman!”

“For the small stuff, at the very least,” Karl agreed. “Will you be visiting the capital in the future?”

“It’s likely, but probably not for a little while. I have things to settle in town, first.”

“Yes. You have enemies that wish to pull you down,” Karl nodded. “I’ll be keeping apprised of the situation. Thank you for dinner, but I should retire early.” Standing up, he gave the women nods and Doc a firm handshake. “Until we meet again.”

“Good evening,” Doc said.

“Ah, spoilsport, he is,” Ernst snorted. “I wanted to check out this new type of poker, if you don’t mind?”

“It’s fine,” Doc said, standing to shake hands with the powerful dwarf. “I wish you luck at the tables.”

“Which is funny, considering who you follow,” Ernst laughed as he headed out.

Svetlana was still seated and she shifted in her seat slightly. “Tell me: do you think you will go west?”

“It’s possible,” Doc told her. “As I told Karl, I have things to finish here, first.”

“Of course,” Svetlana said. She stood up and gave him a smile. “If you come west, please do call on me. I am sure my clan will welcome you warmly.” Her wink was subtle, and Doc almost missed it.

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Doc replied as he walked Svetlana to the dining-room door. “Did you need an escort?”

“No. I will be joining Ernst at the tables. I, too, am interested in what games you might play.”

“I wish you the best of luck,” Doc replied.

“Yes. I enjoy being… lucky,” Svetlana replied as she walked slowly away.

Doc held back the smirk when he saw the sway she put into her walk. Stepping back into the room, he gave his wives a shrug. “Shall we retire for the evening?”

“Yes,” Fiala said.

“I’d like that,” Sonya said. “Did you find her attractive?”

Doc wasn’t expecting the blunt question, but he shrugged. “She was attractive, especially her eyes. Those are unique. I’m not sure I care for her personality, though. I doubt she’d be as open to trying a large relationship.”

“Agreed,” Fiala nodded. “Luckily, you already have three women who are.”

“Lucky, indeed,” Doc grinned.

Chapter Forty-two

Doc was about to leave the dining room when Posy came bounding in. “Doc, there are some people asking to see you.”

“Who?” Doc asked.

“They say they need healing.”

“Ah, word’s getting around quickly. Send the first one in.”

“Also,” Posy said, “the main room is a little slow this morning. Some of the regulars said that the church is telling people that this isn’t a place that is good for them.”

“Not surprising,” Doc replied. “Let’s deal with what is in front of us, first.”

“Yes, sir,” Posy said, bouncing out of the room.

It didn’t take long for the first person to be escorted in by Posy. The bestial woman came into the room with a bit of hesitation. Her white-rimmed, black ears and her striped tail spoke of her raccoon heritage.

“Good morning, miss,” Doc greeted her. “How can I help you?”

“I, uh… I was told that… um… you could heal people?”

“The goddess heals people,” Doc said softly, “I’m just her means of doing so. Did you need healing?”

She looked at the door, then nodded. “If you can.”

“Please, sit,” Doc said, motioning her toward the table as he moved to the other side.

Taking a seat, she licked her lips. “I’m worried about the cost involved. I don’t have a lot of money, and—”

“There is no monetary charge. All that I ask for in payment is that you say a prayer to Lady Luck in thanks.”

Her brow furrowed, but she nodded slowly. “Okay.”

“Lady, this woman is in need of your blessing. Please, help her,” Doc said as he triggered healing hands.

The woman inhaled sharply when his hands glowed green.

“Just place your hand on mine,” Doc told her, putting his hands palm up on the table between them.

Hands trembling, she hesitantly reached out to place one of her hands on Doc’s.

Doc breathed slowly as his energy rushed into her. Stomach pains from a small ulcer, broken little toe on her right foot, and her left ear is infected. Start with the ear— that’s what brought her in more than the other things. The ulcer isn’t going to take much, not with as small as it is. Hm… her toe can remain broken. It’s years old.

Doc let the energy fade when he finished the things he was going to help with. He gave the woman a gentle smile. “All done. Your ear and stomach are healed.”

Eyes wide, she sat there, blinking at him for a few seconds after he finished speaking. “That…” Trailing off, the woman just stared at him for another few seconds. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, pulling her hand from Doc’s and speaking softly, “Lady Luck, thank you. I will do my best to thank you as often as I can.”

“That’s all she asks,” Doc said. “If the pain in your stomach comes back, come see me again. We can try to figure out what’s causing it if it returns.”

“Thank you, sir,” the woman said, getting to her feet. “Thank you, and your goddess.” Giving him a curtsy, she left the room.

Doc stood up as she left. Taking a moment to check his stats, he frowned. Energy consumption is going to be a problem if multiple people need healing... He looked at his faith stat and whistled softly. Okay, maybe I can help with that.

He was lost in thought when a knock on the door got his attention. “Yes?”

“Excuse me?” the man asked nervously. “I came to speak with the healer.”

“That would be me,” Doc said, meeting the bestial’s yellow eyes. “How can I help you?”

“My cousin said you helped him, and my back’s been bothering me,” the man said.

“Farmer like him?” Doc asked.

“Yes, sir.”

“Have a seat,” Doc said.

It didn’t take long to remove the knots in the man’s back and explain what the problem had been. As the farmer left, Doc went back to what he had been doing while he waited for the next person.

Need to either increase my energy pool or reduce the cost of healing, Doc thought as he looked over the options he had.

Doc had just finished his selection when someone cleared their throat. “You the healer?” The speaker’s pain-tinged voice got Doc’s full attention.

“I am. What’s the matter?” Doc asked as he looked up at the bestial man by the door.

Limping into the room, the man grimaced. “Can you heal old wounds?”

“It becomes very taxing, but it’s possible,” Doc said. “Please, have a seat?”

Sinking into the seat slowly, he hissed before exhaling. “It was a few years back. I was shot while riding protection detail on a bank coach. The bullet nearly cost me my leg. The doctor I saw was able to save it, but the pain has been constant since then.”

“Probably a nerve injury,” Doc said. “I’ve already helped a few others today, so I’m not sure I can do what might be required today. If I can’t, I’ll make sure to be ready to see you tomorrow.”

The man nodded grimly. “I’ve spoken to Whittaker and a few others. None of them say they can help. I’m not holding out hope for you, but I’d be a fool not to see if it’s possible.”

“Let’s see,” Doc said. “Lady, this man has an old injury that causes him distress. Please, help him.”

The bestial grunted when he saw the green glow surrounding Doc’s hands. “That’s different.”

“Just clasp my hand,” Doc said, extending his as if to shake with the other man.

Knowledge rushed into Doc’s mind when they shook hands. His ligaments are frayed nearly to failing and his muscles look like swiss cheese. The bone shrapnel in his leg has been wearing them down. I need to remove the shrapnel, first, then fix his ligaments.

“I can help with part of it today,” Doc said, not letting go of the man’s hand. “You have bone chips that have been slowly shredding your ligaments. I can fix the bone today, but I’ll have to fix the rest tomorrow.”

The man grunted. “Hmm... I feel something different, so go ahead.”

Doc pushed his energy into what he set out to do. The feeling of the small pieces of bone being slowly pushed to the surface of the man’s leg caused him to frown. Doc exhaled slowly when the last piece was expelled and the tiny wounds closed.

“All done. Shake out your pant leg. The bone chips are there.”

The man was still frowning, but pushed his chair back from the table and shook his pant leg. Small flecks of white began to dot the floor, the largest almost half the size of a pinkie nail. Blinking, the man picked up the bone sliver and stared at it. “This is… my bone?”

“A small piece of it, but yes.”

The man touched the edge of the bone chip, hissing when a drop of blood welled up. “And this was inside my leg?”

“It’s what was causing most of the pain. Your muscles and ligaments suffered a lot of damage, but I can fix that up tomorrow. Your leg isn’t going to feel a lot better today, though.”

“I’ll reserve judgement until tomorrow, then,” the man said as he pushed himself upright.

“I didn’t catch your name,” Doc said, getting to his feet, as well.

“I didn’t throw it,” the man snorted with an edge of humor. “I’m Clyde Rossal.”

“I’m Doc Holyday, Clyde. I go by Doc.”

“Might be the best Doc I’ve met if you can do what you think you can,” Clyde said. “I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“I’ll be here.”

Doc waited for someone else to show up, but instead, Posy poked her head into the room. “The man who left said you were done healing for the day. Is that true?”

“Is anyone else here?” Doc asked.

“No, but I wanted to see if he was right.”

“Let anyone else who shows up know to come back tomorrow, unless it’s an emergency.”

“Okay.”

Doc sat there for a moment longer as he looked at his character sheet again.

Doc Holyday- 42

Half-Breed Elf/Dwarf

Voice of Luck

Energy: 0/20

Vitality: 5/20

Health: 15/15

Faith: 53 (153)

Racial Bonuses:

Natural affinity to nature magic, improved reflexes, keen hearing and sight, resistance to poisons, improved vitality, night vision, natural affinity to metal crafts

Goddess Gifts:

All In, Stand Down, Missed Me, Healing Hands, Cleansing, Energy Reserves, Medic

Might be able to double that from faith in the town, but maybe I’ll pick up some more from the other clans when their representatives get back, Doc thought. Medic was the best pick— reducing the cost of healing by a quarter will help a lot.

Doc shook his head. “I should go make sure Sophia’s mom is not going to hold a grudge.”

~*~*~

Doc pulled his coat tight when he stepped outside. The rain was a steady drizzle and the breeze— while not as biting as it had been when he’d first come to town— was brisk. Setting off for the courthouse, Doc grimaced when his boots squelched into the mud, but he kept walking.

Few people were out in the weather, and Doc didn’t blame them. It made his walk quieter than normal, though he still caught sight of one of the deputies trailing him. Doc gave them a small wave, but otherwise, let the deputy do their job without hassle.

Even after using the scraper beside the door, Doc knew his footwear would still need a good cleaning to get all the mud off, but at least he wouldn’t leave clumps inside the building. Raised voices got his attention when he entered the courthouse, and he started to walk faster when he realized they were coming from the clerk’s office.

“I don’t care what you say. She was legally able to cancel that contract,” Elta snapped.

“Only having one person to run both departments is a hindrance,” the other voice replied waspishly. “Do you know how hard it is to get qualified people?”

“Better than you do,” Elta snorted.

“Excuse me,” Doc said, opening the door, “I don’t mean to intrude, but you know… business.” He shrugged at Elta and Judge Bero.

“You!” Bero snarled. “This is your fault!”

Doc gave the judge a smile. “I’ve heard that a lot lately. What did I do now?”

“You seduced our records keeper away from her rightful job.”

“Seduced? Judge, your words might cause people to get the wrong idea,” Doc said stiffly. “She was offered a position as legal counsel for Luck’s Holdings. I didn’t even approach her— my financial officer did. So, please, reword your accusation.”

Elta snorted. “She was offered five times what she was making here, and you know that the town will never match that. She joined a highly profitable organization.”

Bero’s teeth ground together before he glared at Doc. “I see… Grange is right about you, after all.” With nothing else to say, Bero left the office in a huff, slamming the door closed behind him.

“Who knew hiring good people would cause such drama?” Doc shrugged.

“How can I assist you?” Elta asked Doc with a repressed smile.

“I was coming to check that you were okay with her joining the company,” Doc chuckled. “I guess I worried for nothing.”

Elta gave Doc a tenuous smile that wobbled with sadness. “I thank you for what you tried to do for my husband, and for finding out what happened to him. My daughter has a kind heart, but she’s also very sharp. When she told me about the offer, I was uncertain. I know you will have many troubles around you.” Her lips stopped wavering and a soft smile filled them. “She explained why to me, and I could see her passion for wanting to help. So, yes. She had my blessing to join your business.” She stared into Doc’s eyes. “You’ll make sure she’s safe, right?”

“I’ll be doing my best to keep anyone near me safe. You have my word that I will do my utmost to keep her safe.”

“Thank you. Thank you for worrying about me, as well.”

“I remember being told to stay away from her,” Doc said seriously. “I didn’t want to upset you.”

Elta laughed lightly. “If only everyone actually listened. I just don’t want her to get hurt. Because I know you will do everything you can to keep her safe, I withdraw my previous statement.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ve heard the church is starting to talk about the Lily, and you,” Elta said seriously. “Are you sure you are going to be able to stand up to McIan?”

“Sure? No. Will I regardless? Yes.”

“May Luck watch over you, then,” Elta said solemnly.

“May she smile upon you, as well.”

Chapter Forty-three

“Doc, now that they’re done with learning about horse care, we should get things ready for me to take them out shooting,” Lia said when they finished breakfast. “They would have today to tidy things up and get ready.”

“I’d need a wagon,” Sophia said softly.

“I can arrange one,” Lia said. “The hard part will be finding a driver.”

Doc smiled when he thought of who he’d be talking with shortly. “I might have an answer for that soon. If not, I’ll see about finding someone.”

“I’ll leave that for you,” Lia said. “I’ll arrange horses and supplies with the livery. As for guns, you’ll send your old ones?”

“That was my thought, yes.”

“I’m sure I can arrange for another couple from Blackbeard. He owes me a favor or two, and I know he has some older guns.”

“Ladies? Comments or concerns?” Doc asked the others at the table.

“None,” Sonya said.

“I’ll do my best,” Ayla said.

“I’m not sure I’ll enjoy them, but I’ll learn everything I can,” Sophia added.

“None from me,” Fiala said last.

“That gives you all of today to finish up any work you need to,” Lia said. “We’ll be gone for at least three days, maybe four.”

Ayla got to her feet. “I need to make sure everything is in order, then.”

“I might be able to finish up some things by then,” Sophia said, following her out the door.

“I don’t have anything planned,” Fiala added.

“Me, neither,” Sonya agreed when the other two had left.

“Then you should come with me,” Lia said. “You might need to arrange similar things in the future.”

“That’s a good point,” Sonya nodded.

“A very good point.”

“Lia, the ebb of business yesterday? How bad was it?”

Lia gave Doc a smile. “Half of what we’d been doing, which is still double from before you came. We’ll be fine. Once the remodel is done, I’m sure we’ll have even more business.”

“Okay. I’ll see you all later,” Doc said.

~*~*~

It wasn’t long after Posy finished cleaning the dining room that Clyde arrived. He limped into the room, though not nearly as badly as he had the day before. “Holyday, how’re you today?” Clyde asked.

“Rested and refreshed. Are you ready to be healed?”

“I’ve been ready for years,” Clyde said, sitting down across from Doc. “I don’t feel as much pain, but it still hurts like the dickens.”

“Let’s make that stop, then,” Doc said as he extended a hand. “Lady, he’s back for your blessing.”

Clyde studied the green glow for a few seconds before taking Doc’s offered hand.

Doc let his energy flow into Clyde, directing it right to the old injury. Small snippets of energy patched each tear. To Doc’s mind, it was like watching a hundred thousand fireworks all going off in rapid succession. As his energy finished healing Clyde’s leg, Doc found another problem and silently healed it, as well.

“All done,” Doc said as the energy faded from his hands.

Clyde sat there with a stunned expression on his face. “The pain is gone.”

“Take a walk around the room,” Doc suggested as he leaned back in his seat.

Clyde took a deep breath and slowly pushed himself to his feet, waiting for the pain he always felt to reappear. Swallowing when nothing happened, he took a hesitant step. Foot landing firm and solid, Clyde began to grin as he took two quick steps, then began to jog around the room.

“It’s healed!”

“It is, indeed,” Doc chuckled.

“Thank you!” Clyde said, coming to a stop beside Doc. “Thank you. It’s a miracle.”

Doc tried not to notice the tears coming from the man’s eyes. “Luck provides, and asks only that you offer up a prayer now and again.”

“Of course,” Clyde said, wiping at his eyes. “Bless you, Lady. Bless you.”

“On an unrelated note, you said you worked on the bank wagons? Does that mean you can drive a wagon?”

Clyde was still wiping the tears from his face. “Yes. Everyone on them needs to be able to drive.”

“Could I hire you for four days?” Doc asked. “I have some friends who’re taking a small trip out of town, and they need a skilled driver.”

Clyde put his handkerchief away. “I’ll do it for free. My thanks to you.”

“No,” Doc said. “I’ll pay. It’s the right thing to do.”

Clyde just shook his head. “I can’t ask you to pay me, not after this. I have my life back.”

“Then don’t ask me to pay,” Doc replied with a grin. “I’ll just give you an appropriate amount, instead.”

“You’re a stubborn one,” Clyde laughed. “I give in.”

“Tomorrow morning, they’ll be at the livery.”

“Understood,” Clyde said, his smile wide. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Doc said, shaking Clyde’s hand as he showed him out.

“Doc?”

“Yes, Posy?” Doc asked, sticking his head back into the hallway.

“Do you want me to show them in one at a time?”

“More people to be healed?”

“Yes. Four, at least,” Posy replied from the doorway to the main room.

“That’s fine, Posy. Thank you.”

Posy beamed as she went through the door.

~*~*~

Doc exhaled heavily and sat back in his seat. “Damn… some of those were not simple.” Taking a deep pull from the mug Posy had brought him, Doc relaxed.

A knock on the door made him frown— he’d told Posy that he was done for the day. It opened a moment later to show Heather standing there, and Doc gave her a tired smile.

“Heather, did you need something?”

“I heard you finished healing people. I can see the tiredness in your eyes.”

Doc raised his mug to her. “It can take a toll on me if I do too much.”

“How about something to soothe the soul?” Heather asked with a smile.

Laughing, Doc set his mug down. “You want a duet?”

“I wouldn’t say no,” Heather grinned.

Doc noticed how the scar tugged at her eye when she did. Staring at her, he thought about healing gifts from Luck, and the list of what she offered appeared in front of him. A quick glance down the many items and he found the one he had debated earlier, using his faith to purchase it this time.

“Doc…? Why are you staring at me?” Heather asked, her smile gone as her self-consciousness kicked in.

“Heather, do you believe in Luck?” Doc asked.

Blinking at him, as the question came from nowhere, she nodded. “You’ve done enough to make me believe.”

“Can I ask you a personal question?”

“I might not answer, but go ahead.”

“If I could remove the scar, would you want that?”

Heather’s hand touched the old wound for a second, and her lips thinned. “It can’t be helped.”

“If it could, would you want it gone?” Doc pressed lightly.

Looking away from him, Heather shifted in place. “If it could? Yes.”

“Come here, please,” Doc said as he held out a hand to her. “Luck would like to give you a gift.” His hand began to glow as he said the words.

Heather stared at his hand for a long moment. “If it doesn’t work, I’ll be very upset,” she said, taking his hand.

Doc smiled when he found Heather in good health. Directing his remaining energy to her scar, he watched as the scar began to fade from her face. His single point of energy vanished, and his vitality took up the task of finishing the job.

When her scar was completely gone, Doc let the glow fade from his hand. “Flawless skin,” he said, even more tired than he had been.

Heather touched her face when he let go of her hand, and her eyes began to widen when her fingers traced over unblemished flesh. “Is it… is it really?”

“I don’t have a mirror, sorry,” Doc said, “but yes. You’re no longer scarred.”

Heather left the room with quick steps, and Doc wondered if she was going to be okay. Picking his mug back up, he drained what was left of it.

“Thank you…!” Heather said from the doorway, her voice thick with emotion.

Doc looked over to see her crying, and his heart clenched briefly. “You’re welcome, Heather. You’ve done a lot for me, and I wanted to repay you.”

Heather swallowed and wiped at her face. “I’ve done? No. It’s you. You’ve done so much… for Lia, Daf… all of us. And the songs…”

Doc got up and went to stand a few feet from her. “I cheat with those, so don’t give me too much credit for them.” He gently placed a hand on her shoulder. “You bring them to life, better than I would ever be able to. Oh, I almost forgot.” Doc let go of her and went back over to the table, pulling out the sheet music he’d worked on between seeing people. “I have this for you.”

Heather accepted the paper with a shaky hand. “I’ll learn it as quickly as I can.”

“Take your time,” Doc said softly. “And if you still want, I’d like to come play with you.”

Heather’s hesitant smile lit up her unblemished face. “Please.”

~*~*~

Doc was still tired when he took his seat in the dining room again. “How did your day go?”

Ayla spoke up first. “I have everything in order for me to be gone for nearly a week. The only trouble might be if the next load of ore comes in before I get back. As it is, they’re still needing another special run from the capital for the last load. I think the capital bank will make sure they send more money down here regularly, now. The money for the shipment from last time should be here tomorrow.”

“I’ll deal with it, and you can double-check it when you get back,” Doc said.

“Very well.”

Lia motioned for Sophia to speak, and the bestial nodded. “I have the paperwork together for Rosa to be claimed by you. After you have her collared, you’ll need to present her to a soulsmith so they can verify that she is indeed chained. The paperwork will suffice until you can get her verified and get a license for her.”

“Thank you,” Doc said, a tired smile on his lips. “I’m sure she’ll be beside herself.”

“I also started on the paperwork to solidify your holdings. After speaking with Ayla, I’ve begun getting everything needed to put forth a plan to buy all the land between your mine and the town. It’ll be expensive, but Ayla says it can be done. I thought you’d prefer to own all that property so another couldn’t try to choke off your claim.”

“I hadn’t even considered it,” Doc chuckled. “We’ll need someone who can make sure things are set up right so the town grows and isn’t just a hodgepodge of stuff with no solid plan.”

“I might know someone,” Ayla said. “A friend of mine from school. She was focused on town planning.”

“Send her a message and ask if she wants the job?” Doc asked. “When you get back, of course.”

“Yes, Doc.”

“Now that they’re done,” Lia said when silence settled over them, “we have horses, a wagon, and supplies for tomorrow.”

“I have a driver for you,” Doc said. “Clyde Rossal. He used to work on the bank’s wagon teams.”

“How did you meet him?” Lia asked curiously.

“Healed an old injury he had. His leg was a mess.”

Lia nodded. “I know him now. Walked with a pronounced limp, complained a lot?”

“Sounds like him,” Doc chuckled. “He wasn’t complaining when he left today.”

“If he worked with the bank teams, he’ll be skilled,” Ayla said. “For driving and protection.”

“Let me know how he does,” Doc said.

“Considering asking to hire him for more than just this time?’ Lia asked.

“If he’s respectful and skilled,” Doc nodded. “Good help is hard to find.”

“I’ll let you know,” Lia replied.

“How about you two?” Doc asked Fiala and Sonya, who’d been sitting quietly.

“We learned a lot,” Fiala said.

“A great deal,” Sonya agreed. “Lia explained every purchase to us so we know the reasoning behind them.”

“They are adept pupils,” Lia smiled. “Oh, and Doc, did you heal Heather’s old wound?”

“Saw that, huh?” Doc asked.

“I always notice my friends, and she was smiling so brightly tonight.”

“I picked up a gift from Luck that lets me heal old scars. I will also no longer leave scars behind when healing people.”

“Oh, that’ll make some things easier,” Fiala said.

“Yes, it will,” Doc agreed. “I have some scars to heal up, as do you.”

The door opened, admitting Posy and Daf. “Dinner,” Daf smiled.

Chapter Forty-four

Doc exhaled a shaky breath as he relaxed. “Now that is a goodbye.”

Fiala and Sonya giggled as they got out of bed. “Told you he’d love that as a sendoff,” Fiala said.

“I didn’t argue,” Sonya replied. “It’ll feel odd, though. I just got used to this arrangement, but now we won’t see him for four days?”

“We’ll just have to make up for it when we get back. Oh, and Doc?” Fiala asked, making sure he looked at them as they dressed. “Lotus and Jasmine are okay. Please, no one other than them?”

Doc gave her a soft smile. “I wouldn’t take anyone else to bed. Not even sure I’ll have fun with them.”

Fiala moved over to the bed, still topless. Sitting beside him, she touched his cheek. “Don’t reject them thinking you have to. Lotus misses being with you, and she’s my oldest friend. The choice is yours, but Sonya and I approve of them for fun.”

Sonya nodded. “Agreed, though, in honesty, I wouldn’t forbid you from anyone you wanted. Being with you is my only wish. I’d only be upset if you ignored me.”

Fiala’s lips creased, but she sighed. “Rosa and Sonya are both a bit more open-minded than I am. I’ll try to work on that.”

Doc cupped her cheek as he sat up. “No, you don’t have to change for me. I love you the way you are.”

Fiala smiled, kissing him softly. “Thank you, husband. Now, stop lying about. You have to see us all off.”

Doc chuckled as she got up and continued to dress. “I do, indeed. I was surprised by how quick Ayla and Sophia were to accept the idea of riding and shooting.”

Fiala and Sonya exchanged a glance as Doc dressed, both of them shaking their heads at his statement. Sonya was the one who spoke up after a second, “Doc, you do realize they’re both committed to helping you, right?”

“Yeah. I thought for sure Ayla was just going to complete her contract and leave, but she surprised me when she accepted coming on board for the long haul. Sophia was a shock, but it’s a boon to have her.”

“Ayla caught the bouquet at my wedding,” Sonya said.

“Oh, right,” Doc nodded. “You weren’t there to stop her that time,” Doc laughed. “The look on her face when it was Fiala’s being snatched away from you was…” Doc trailed off, finally putting the pieces together. “Oh…”

“Yes,” Fiala said. “She’s waiting for a sign from you, husband.”

Doc sat on the bed with a hard exhale. “Fucking hell. Her, too?”

“Is that so bad?” Sonya asked. “She’s dedicated, and knows what being with you would entail.”

“Didn’t expect it, is all,” Doc said. “She’s attractive, smart, and focused. You sure she’d be okay with us? Rosa, too?”

“We’ll find out,” Fiala said gently. “After all, there will be plenty of time for girl-talk while we’re out of town.”

Sonya was about to say more, but Fiala gave a small shake of her head, and Sonya nodded. Doc missed the byplay, fumbling with getting his socks on.

“Please find out? Both of you are okay with it?”

“I’ll have her take the same test as Sonya first,” Fiala said, “but if she’s honest and earnest, I would accept her.”

“I’ll accept any who will help you,” Sonya said. “Her personality is kind and she’s sweet, so she’d be a good addition.”

Doc got his boots on and looked up at them. “This is unusual, but I won’t say no. I’m trying to accept everything good that comes to me, but only if it doesn’t hurt those I love.”

Sonya and Fiala beamed as they moved over and sat on either side of him, leaning into him as they did. “Thank you,” Fiala said, echoed by Sonya.

Putting his arms around his two wives, Doc wondered again if Luck had all of this planned when she sent him to this world. If you did, Lilly, you have my deepest thanks. If not, still... thank you.

~*~*~

Ayla, Sophia, and Lia were already in the dining room when the three of them made it downstairs. Posy was right behind the trio with a cart filled with breakfast foods, which she promptly served to them.

“You’ll be safe and keep them safe, right, Lia?” Posy asked when she finished serving.

“I will, Posy,” Lia replied with a gentle smile. “Remember, Cassia and Doc are in charge while I’m away.”

“Yes,” Posy nodded before she left them to their meal.

“Cassia is the better choice for running this place,” Doc said.

“She’ll do the majority of it, but since you have part ownership of the Lily, you might need to step in from time to time.”

“For the truly stupid and unruly. Got it.”

“The money should be in today,” Ayla reminded Doc after a couple of minutes.

“I’ll check on it,” Doc said.

“If you think of other paperwork you need, please make a note of it for me,” Sophia told him. “I’ll make sure to get to it when we get back.”

“Will do.”

“Do you have any plans while we’re gone?” Ayla asked.

“I’ll probably have Sigmund stop by and check on him again, and I’ll heal anyone who comes by and asks. That’s about it. Our plans are still moving forward, right?”

“Yes, with the addition of purchasing the land between here and the mine. Ah, that reminds me,” Ayla turned to Lia. “I need to know how much of the cliff face is sacred to your clan.”

“Why?” Lia asked.

“If we build a pathway up the cliff, it’d cut down the time to get to the mine.”

“To better connect it to the town and make the expansion of the town more seamless,” Sophia added.

“Oh. The land where the dead lie is sacred. I’d ask you to give them some buffer.”

“That’s fine, then,” Ayla nodded. “We can build the path at the north end of the town. It’ll be a long back and forth path. I’ve already discussed the idea with the clan, Doc. They’ll do the job and at a decent cost.”

“After we get the property locked up?”

“Of course.”

“I’ll leave you to arrange it,” Doc said.

“I’ll also drop the letter to my old friend off at the general store when we leave.”

“Sophia,” Doc said as he finished his meal, “how’s your mother?”

Sophia gave Doc a smile. “She’s fine, Doc. Busy with me gone, but I have a distant cousin coming to take up my old position. She told me you checked with her about me.”

Doc shrugged. “I didn’t want her upset with us.”

“It was kind of you. Thank you. It soothed the small worries she had.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

“Well, that was the best food we’ll be having for the next few days,” Fiala said, pushing her plate away.

“You’re not wrong,” Lia agreed, “but we’ll be having hot meals while we’re out. Everyone will learn the basics of setting camp on this trip, as well as the guns.”

“I’ll be looking forward to it,” Sonya said as she pushed her plate away and stood up. “I need to retrieve the guns from our room. I’ll be back down shortly.”

“We should all get anything we still need,” Lia said, rising to her feet. “Meet me outside in a few minutes.”

Everyone got to their feet and headed for the door, except Doc and Lia. As the others left, Lia gave Doc a smile. “I’ll keep them safe, so don’t worry.”

“I know you will,” Doc said. “I’ll see you all when you return.”

“I hope you have a few quiet days,” Lia said as she started for the door. She paused at the doorway. “Sigmund, I believe Doc was going to see you later.”

“Came for help,” Sigmund said. “Doc busy. Need to see early if want help.”

“He’s making a name for himself,” Lia agreed. “How are your hats?”

Sigmund’s smile grew wide. “Good. Very good. Happy hats. Making one for you.”

Lia laughed lightly. “I’m not known for wearing hats, but if you make one, I will make an exception.”

“Good, good! It will be special!”

“I’ll look forward to it. Doc is waiting for you, and I have to go. Be well, my friend.” Lia patted Sigmund’s shoulder before leaving him in the doorway.

“Sigmund,” Doc greeted the small man, “it’s good to see you. I’m glad you came by.”

“Yes. Heard many come see you now,” Sigmund smiled. “Help?”

“Of course. What hat are you making for Lia?”

Sigmund clicked his tongue. “Secret.”

“Then I won’t ask again,” Doc said. “Now, let’s see how your blood is doing.”

~*~*~

Doc was glad it wasn’t raining today, as that would’ve made the trip out miserable for the women. The temperature was slowly warming each day, as well. Spring is coming, or is already here, Doc thought.

His pace slowed when he saw the heavily-armored wagon come into view. The four mechanical-horse team walked at a quick pace, easily pulling the heavy wagon. The two men on top of the wagon scanned the street with wary eyes, one of them giving Doc a long look before dismissing him.

Crossing the street, Doc kept going toward the bank, wondering if Goodman would be there to cause a scene. Doc’s hand touched the grip of the pistol on his hip as he walked, and he hoped it wouldn’t come to that.

Entering the bank, Doc smiled when he saw the coachman and Goodman having a heated discussion. He stepped to the side and waited as he listened to them argue.

“It doesn’t matter what you think!” the coachman snapped. “The boss has declared that you need to expand the vault and be able to handle the influx of cash. The quality of the soul stone and ore is damned near perfect, and it’s been noted. Besides, dropping this chunk of money off, I have to find the mine owner and deliver a message.”

“He’ll be gone in a few weeks,” Goodman said tersely. “He’s been making enemies of everyone of import in town.”

“The boss disagrees with your assessment,” the coachman snorted.

“And he’d be right,” Doc said, stepping forward. “I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon. Excuse me, but you caught my ear. I’m Doc Holyday, owner of the mine that produces the items you were speaking of.”

The coachman looked at Doc and nodded. “Yeah, I remember you. You stole his useful secretary out from under him.”

“Guilty,” Doc laughed.

“Holyday,” Goodman said tightly. “What can I do for you today?”

“Here to make sure the money gets transferred into my account correctly. No offense, Mayor, but your current secretary is useless for business. I’m sure her other assets make it up to you, but for the rest of us? Not so much.”

The coachman laughed. “I’d rather have the half-elf. She was a looker and sharp.”

“She is that,” Doc agreed. “You had a message for me?”

“My employer, Roquefell, wanted me to extend an invitation to you. When you make it to Furden, he would welcome you to dinner.”

Doc nodded, even though he had no idea what a Furden was. “I’d be more than happy to have dinner with him.”

“I’ll pass that along. He’ll be keeping an eye on how things play out down here.”

“Can I get your name, sir?” Doc asked.

“I’m not important, but I’m Tom Rondle.”

“Thank you. If he asks me, I can tell him how helpful you were,” Doc said.

Goodman cleared his throat loudly. “If you two are done, I believe there is business to conduct?”

“As soon as the money is brought in and accounted for,” Doc said. “Oh, Rondle, can the bank just deposit the money in my account instead of sending you down with the physical cash? I’m not paying it out that much. A lot of it is credited toward debts that the bank holds, anyway.”

Rondle’s eye twitched. “What? We didn’t have to bring this load all the way here?”

Goodman’s lips thinned. “That isn’t true. If he’d told us, then—”

“Ayla did tell you,” Doc cut him off. “She’s been doing her job, and doing it well. You’d know that if you weren’t trying to get your cheat-riddled gambling house to compete with the Lily. Instead, you leave your secretary here to fuck… up.” Doc changed the last word a little lamely, as he didn’t feel like throwing the teller under the bus.

Goodman’s face flushed a dark red. “You’re pushing your luck, Holyday.”

“No, I’m just stating facts. If you don’t like them, you can change so that it won’t be factual anymore. I’ll be back to check on the account once the money is brought in.” Doc turned to Rondle. “Thank you, sir. I hope you have a good day.”

“Good day, Holyday.”

Doc could feel Goodman’s eyes burning into his back as he left the bank.

Chapter Forty-five

A rough voice called out to Doc just as he was almost back to the Lily. “Your hide is done.”

Doc’s head whipped to the speaker and his heart wound down from the spike it had hit. “Grax?”

“My name,” the bestial snorted. “Your hide is ready.” Pulling the sling from his back, Grax held it out to Doc. “Urma said we’ll do more work if you bring it in.”

“Thank you,” Doc said, taking the rolled hide. “How much was it, again?”

“With the discount, forty-five,” Grax said. “What will you do with it?”

Doc pulled out the right amount and passed the coins over to Grax. “Give it to a friend.”

Grax snorted again. “Expensive gift.”

“Their friendship is worth much more,” Doc replied.

“Good friend,” Grax said before walking away.

“She is, indeed,” Doc agreed as he turned back to the Lily.

Jasmine gave Doc a grin and a wink as he passed the bar. Doc smiled back at her and chuckled before climbing the stairs. Putting the hide into his room, Doc went right back down.

“You the healer?” a man wheezed, staggering up to Doc when he got to the main room.

“I’m Holyday,” Doc said, pulling back slightly from the man, who wore whiskey like perfume. “What’s wrong?”

“Sick,” the man managed before he let out a long, rough series of coughs.

“Let’s go into the back,” Doc said.

“Hey, I was here first!” another man yelled, leaving his seat at the bar.

“So was I...” a woman with a long, hairless tail said from her seat near the hallway door.

“Piss off!” the inebriated man sneered at the other two. “He said he’d see me.”

“Easy, easy,” Doc said with authority. “I’ll see all three of you. I apologize that things aren’t going smoothly. This is why Posy normally handles my queue. Sir, have a seat, and after I see the people who were here before you—”

“What!?” the drunk snapped at Doc, rounding on him. “You telling me no?”

“No. I’m saying that—”

“Rather take the rat into the back?” the drunk sneered. “Bet she squeaks when you see to her.”

Doc stared at the drunk, his anger spiking at the implied meaning. “Sir, if you continue—”

“No! You’re just a beast lover,” the man spat at Doc’s feet. “I’ll go see a real healer.”

Doc watched the man wobble his way out the Lily before looking at the quiet room. “I apologize for the drunkard. For those who came to see about some healing, Posy will be bringing you back one by one. Any disrespect to the staff or customers will get you pushed back or ejected from the premises. Any questions?”

No one said anything, and Doc bowed his head. “Thank you.”

Posy was standing just inside the doorway to the hall, her face serious. “I’m sorry, Doc.”

“Not your fault, Posy,” Doc said softly. “Do you know who was here first?”

“Yes.”

“Bring them back one at a time, please. If anyone bothers you, push them back in line or have Joey kick them out.”

“Okay, Doc.”

“Can you bring back a drink for me, too, please?”

“Yes.”

“Thanks, Posy. You’re the best.”

Posy was all smiles when she went into the main room.

Taking a seat, Doc exhaled deeply, trying to push the drunk from his mind. He gave the bestial woman a smile when she came into the room. He thanked Posy and took a sip from his mug before setting it down.

“Good day to you, miss. What can I do for you?”

The rat-tailed woman gave Doc a worried look. “I came because of a problem I’ve been having...” she said slowly.

“I’ll help if I’m able to,” Doc said, motioning her to sit across from him. “Take your time and explain it to me, please?”

Licking her lips nervously, the woman sat on the edge of the chair. “I… uh… that is… umm…”

Doc just waited for her to be able to form the words, a pleasant smile on his lips as he sat there. After a full minute of her not being able to find the words, Doc gently interrupted her. “Miss, it’s okay. I’ve heard a lot of different things. There’s no need to be nervous. Nothing you tell me will leave this room.”

Taking a deep breath, the woman glanced at the door and looked like she’d bolt for it, but instead, she blurted out, “I’m barren.”

“Okay,” Doc said evenly, not reacting to her words, “I can try to help.” Laying his hand on the table palm up, he spoke gently, “Lady, a woman has come asking for your help. She only wishes to have children. Please, help her.”

Seeing his hand glow, the woman’s breath caught in her throat and her eyes locked on his hand.

“When you’re ready, place your hand on mine,” Doc told her gently.

Slowly, hand trembling, she reached out and placed her hand in his.

Energy rushing into the woman, Doc closed his eyes. She’s not barren... she has eggs and they seem healthy. It’s her uterine walls. They’re warped, malformed, and stopping her from being able to carry the egg. This might take a lot out of me. Pushing the worry of cost aside, Doc focused his energy on reshaping her uterus to carry a viable egg.

Exhaling deeply, the glow faded on Doc’s hand as he picked up the mug and took a drink. “All done. You should be able to carry a child now.”

The woman was staring at him with wide eyes, her cheeks burning. “You… my body…?”

Doc winced. “Sorry. Your insides were twisted. They’re fine now. Did it hurt?”

“No,” the woman whispered, then shook her head. “Oh, uh… payment. They say that we just have to say a prayer to your goddess?”

“That’s right,” Doc smiled. “Lady Luck. Maybe she’ll bless you with a child soon, too.”

Cheeks going crimson, the woman jerked to her feet. “Thank you, Holyday, and your goddess, Lady Luck, too.” She rushed out without waiting to hear more.

Doc rubbed his neck. “Note to self—fixing female problems might cause other problems.”

A minute later, the man from the bar knocked on the door. “Excuse me, sir.”

“Come on in,” Doc greeted him. “Have a seat.”

~*~*~

Doc felt drained when the latest person left the room.

“That’s the last one, Doc,” Posy told him.

“Good, I’m done,” Doc told her tiredly. “Anyone give you problems?”

“No, Doc.”

“Good.”

“Do you have time to help me study?” Posy asked shyly.

“Of course,” Doc said sitting upright. “Go grab your stuff.”

~*~*~

Doc’s fingers flew over the last few keys, and the song came to an end. “And that’s the song. Got it?”

“Let’s find out,” Heather grinned, her smile bright as she cracked her knuckles and set her hands over the ivory keys.

Doc tapped his foot in time to the song while Heather played. The patrons clapped along if they weren’t in the middle of a pot. When the song came to an end, applause and whistles rocked the room.

“I’d say you do,” Doc laughed as he got to his feet. “It’s all yours, Heather. I’ve got to get some food in me.”

“Fine,” Heather mock-pouted before giving him a grin. “Thank you for playing with me again.”

“Whenever I have the time,” Doc told her.

Making his way to the dining room, he waved to Daf in the kitchen, who gave him a nod. Settling into what was fast becoming his chair in the dining room, Doc sighed. The room felt empty without anyone else there with him.

After a few minutes, Posy came in with his dinner. The large plate was filled with a massive steak, along with mashed potatoes and gravy. Doc was just starting to dig in when the door opened, and he paused to find out who it was.

Lotus stuck her head into the room and gave him a tentative smile. “Doc, are you up for some company?”

“You? Always.”

“And me?” Jasmine asked, her head coming into view behind Lotus.

“You, too,” Doc smiled.

Both women joined him at the table, and Posy brought them each a plate. They ate in companionable silence. Doc’s eyebrow went up when a foot began to rub his leg. Looking up, he didn’t see either woman looking his way, and since they were both across from him, it was hard to tell which one it might be. After a moment, the foot withdrew and Doc went back to focusing on his meal.

“That was good,” Doc sighed happily.

“Daf makes the best food,” Lotus said.

“Fills you up,” Jasmine added.

“But there can always be room for dessert,” Lotus said as the foot began to rub against his leg again.

“Oh, yes. Dessert sounds good,” Jasmine agreed, a second foot joining the first.

“Ladies, did you want something?” Doc asked with an amused smirk.

Lotus and Jasmine grinned and Lotus leaned forward slightly. “Fiala and Sonya told us both that they gave us their blessing while they’re gone. Jasmine and I decided to see if you were agreeable to the idea.”

“I’m agreeable,” Doc replied. “In fac—”

“Doc, come quick!” Posy exclaimed as she burst into the room.

Doc was on his feet in record time and running after Posy, who was bounding down the hall, not having stopped to see if he was following her. The sound of chairs being shoved back echoed behind him.

Running into the main room, Doc’s eyes went wide when he found both deputies there. Spot was on the ground bleeding, and Fido was kneeling next to him, holding his hand.

“Stay with me!” Fido howled as he clutched at Spot’s hand.

Doc stumbled as he crossed the room, falling to his knee, which became a point of fire when it slammed into the wooden floor. Hissing, he dragged himself the couple of inches to lay hands on Spot.

“Lady, now! Please!” Doc cried as he triggered healing hands.

Four gunshot wounds. Two through the intestines, which are already going septic. Another broke a rib… There are pieces of bone floating free in his chest cavity. The last one is through the shoulder. All of the wounds were catalogued in Doc’s mind as he pushed what energy he had into Spot.

“Posy, Henrick! As many healing potions as she can give,” Doc said without looking away from Spot, who was staring at him. “I can help, but he’s gravely wounded, and I’ve healed a lot already today.”

“Yes!” Posy called out as she dashed out the door.

“Cassia, my room! Four potions in the chest,” Doc called out. “Need them now!”

“I’ll get them!” Lotus shouted, having followed him.

“Hot water, clothes, and soap!” Doc commanded.

“On it,” Jasmine replied, rushing back toward the kitchen.

“Doc, please…” Fido whispered. “He’s my only family.”

“Spot,” Doc said, staring down into the deputy’s eyes, “hold on. Cling to life. I can save you, but only if you fight for it.”

“F-fight,” Spot stammered, wheezing.

Doc focused on trying to staunch the bleeding first. Spot wouldn’t make it if he couldn’t stop the blood loss. He didn’t need to heal them entirely, but just enough to stop the bleeding.

“Stay with me... fight for it!” Fido growled as he squeezed his brother’s hand.

The bleeding began to slow, and Doc prayed the others would get back with the potions soon. Lotus was the first one back and almost immediately beside him with what he asked for. Grabbing one vial from her, he popped it open and shoved it into Spot’s mouth. Spot swallowed reflexively, coughing when he finished. Doc force-fed him the next three, which helped stop the bleeding entirely. Doc focused on Spot’s gut wound next.

“Here,” Jasmine said, plunking a bucket of steaming water next to Doc.

Doc reached up and snagged one of the clean washcloths from her, covering the gut wounds. Pushing his energy, he made it close the rest of the way— the potions having helped some— then forced the gunk from the intestines out of the wounds.

Jasmine gagged and backed away when the wound began to ooze filth, dropping the cloths next to Doc as she did. Doc grabbed another and replaced the first one, then a third, followed by a fourth before he dunked one into the water. He gave a muffled scream as he pulled his red hand away and wiped the steaming cloth over Spot’s stomach.

Spot howled when the heated cloth touched him, and again as it was pushed over his wounds. Fido’s hand spasmed and he had to resist the urge to slug Doc, knowing he was only trying to help.

Head swimming as he healed Spot, Doc was breathing hard. Infection’s almost gone... need to get rid of the bone chips or they might hit his heart and lungs.

“Doc?” Lotus asked with concern, seeing him wobble.

“Not yet,” Doc mumbled as he pulled at the bone chips, forcing them to come to the surface. One by one, they did what he wanted, and he felt something hot running over his lips. “Almost...” Doc mumbled and brushed at his face.

“Doc, stop! You’re bleeding!” Lotus shouted at him.

“Almost...” Doc said, his hands firmly planted on Spot’s chest. His breath became unsteady as he pushed the last bone chip out. Eyes stinging, he looked up, meeting Fido’s wide eyes. “H-he’ll live…” Doc slurred and fell over.

“Doc!” Lotus screamed, pulling him into her lap. Blood was leaking from his nose, mouth, and eyes. “Help, someone! Help!”

Character Information

Doc Holyday- 42

Half-Breed Elf/Dwarf

Voice of Luck

Energy: 0/20

Vitality: 0/20

Health: 1/15

Faith: 3 (153)

Racial Bonuses:

Natural affinity to nature magic, improved reflexes, keen hearing and sight, resistance to poisons, improved vitality, night vision, natural affinity to metal crafts

Goddess Gifts:

All In, Stand Down, Missed Me, Healing Hands, Cleansing, Energy Reserves, Medic, Unblemished

All In: When the game is on the line, your luck knows no bounds. The Lady herself will influence things in your favor. Calling on her in this way draws the attention of the darkness as well. Use this sparingly, or bad luck will swiftly follow.

Stand Down: When you decide the point needs to be made, you can force even a wolverine bestial to step back and calm down. Useable once per day without payment. Using this again in the same day will tax you heavily; within an hour, you will collapse into a short coma.

Missed Me: Who needs to be fast on the draw if they cannot hit you? Able to bend time and space so any single attack misses you. Only able to use this once per hour.

Healing Hands: Use your energy to fuel healing for whoever you touch. If no energy is available, you can use your vitality. If no vitality is available, you will use health. Using health in this way can lead to death.

Cleansing: This gift augments the spell “Healing Hands.” Lets the spell cleanse toxins, diseases, the darkness, and other lingering effects. Energy cost is based on the severity of the condition being cleansed. If no energy is available, you can use vitality, if no vitality is available, you will use health. Using health in this way can lead to death. You will be asked to verify if you wish to use this ability before it triggers.

Energy Reserves: Doubles your available energy.

Medic: Healing costs ¼ less energy.

Unblemished: Healing no longer leaves scars, and can remove old scars.

Author’s Note

Please consider leaving a review for the book, feedback is imperative for an indie author. If you don’t want to review it then think about leaving a comment or even just a quick message. Remember, positive feedback is always welcome.

If you want to keep up on the latest updates, or the one stop shop for all the links, my website is the best place for that. Remember to subscribe to the mailing list to know when I publish a new book, and you get an exclusive short when you sign up.

http://schinhofenbooks.com/

Other places you can keep up to date on me and my works:

https://www.patreon.com/DJSchinhofen
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https://schinhofenbooks.blogspot.com/

If you LOVE LitRPG, then check out these pages full of awesome LITRPG goodness. You can interact with authors like me and many more. Find banter, good times and a lot of like minded people.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitRPGsociety/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/haremlit/

A big thank you to my editors, Samantha Bishop, and Sarinia Phelps. Also props to Geno Ferrarini, and Sean Hickinbotham for being my Alpha Readers. I’d be remiss if I didn’t include my beta readers, in no particular order: Ian McAdams ~*~ Dame ~*~ A.J. Bishop ~*~ Jay Taylor ~*~ Zee ~*~ Scott Brown ~*~ Kevin Kollman ~*~ Justin Johanson ~*~ Kenneth Darlin ~*~ Rob Bunting ~*~ Sawyer Aubrey ~*~ Aoife Grimm ~*~ Peter LaFemina ~*~ Tanner Lovelace ~*~ Tim? ~*~ Carl Gheradi ~*~ Shiafu ~*~ Dimitri Shadow ~*~ Matt Case ~*~ Richard G Stahl ~*~ Cheyene Adams ~*~ A Madsen ~*~ MrNyxt ~*~ J. Stone ~*~ D Smith.

The cover for Cashing In is brought to you by Anthony Bishop, a very talented artist. You can find him at https://grimmhelm.artstation.com/

A big thanks to my Patreon supporters who have gone above and beyond in their support:

Dreamon ~*~ Michael S Pellman ~*~ Ori Shifrin ~*~ Philippe Bruneau ~*~ Shakekiller ~*~ Harrison ~*~ Exempt Pie ~*~ Mark Calvanico ~*~ Eric Hutchinson ~*~ Matthew McRoyall ~*~ Dwayne Bullock ~*~ Brian Doyle ~*~ Seto Kyba ~*~ Eliseo Rios ~*~ John ~*~ Ashley Scott ~*~ James Breaux ~*~ Thomas Smith ~*~ Christopher Gross ~*~ Dragonkain ~*~ Magnus Gammal ~*~ Matthias Meilahn ~*~ Pamela J Smith ~*~ Andre Durkalec ~*~ Ryan A Larkey ~*~ Barry Dirickson ~*~ Robert Owen ~*~ Matthew Malkin ~*~ EthanK ~*~ Chace Corso ~*~ Robse ~*~ Jeremy Cox ~*~ Jacob Lawlor ~*~ Malcolm White ~*~ Derek Raines ~*~ Aaron Blue ~*~ Allderin . ~*~ Dane Smith ~*~ Robert Knight ~*~ Benjamin J Russell ~*~ Matthew ~*~ Winston Smith ~*~ Aryan Eimermacher ~*~ Michael Jackson ~*~ Tom Richards ~*~ Jose Caudillo ~*~ Rey T Nufable ~*~ Eli Page ~*~ William Merrick ~*~ Southern Celt ~*~ Abraham Madsen ~*~ Chris Cannon ~*~ Masta Manta ~*~ Kevin Harris ~*~ Don Jinkins ~*~ J. Patrick Walker ~*~ T3iain ~*~ Jeff Morris ~*~ Joshua McCane ~*~ Terry Wood-Davies ~*~ Damien Osborne ~*~ Lui Adecer ~*~ Malcolm Wade ~*~ Kenneth Darlin ~*~ Chioke Nelson ~*~ Brad Schultz ~*~ Rafnar Caldon ~*~ Travis Hilliard ~*~ Caleb Bear ~*~ David Morrissey ~*~ William Simmons ~*~ Kevin McKinney ~*~ Robert Shofner ~*~ Tristitan ~*~ Joshua Towns ~*~ John Curtis ~*~ Forrest Hansen ~*~ Spencer Jefferson ~*~ Matthew Zarember ~*~ Ryan Luttinger ~*~ Pheonixblue ~*~ Tyller James ~*~ Kenneth Freeman ~*~ David Taylor-Fuller ~*~ Nathan Goforth ~*~ Xiao ~*~ Kurt Bodenstedt ~*~ Brett Hudson ~*~ Adam ~*~ Stephan Caperton ~*~ Matthew Myers ~*~ Deme ~*~ James Parker ~*~ Tetsu-nii ~*~ Eric Jaschen ~*~ Dedalus inventor ~*~ Clinton Wertzbaugher ~*~ Michael Erwin ~*~ Travis Btmb ~*~ Joshua Stusek ~*~ Bret Cole ~*~ Loyd Hockersmith ~*~ BobsNemesis ~*~ Kevin Clark ~*~ Gregory Sanders ~*~ Matthew Parikka ~*~ Michael Shearer ~*~ Michael Hyde Jr. ~*~ James Murphy ~*~ ItWasIDio!! ~*~ Chanh Pham ~*~ Zachariah Miller ~*~ Christopher B. ~*~ Calidia ~*~ Derek Morgan ~*~ Zenn Barger ~*~ Ryan Williamson ~*~ MattMick222 ~*~ IntheRaccon ~*~ Red Phoenix ~*~ Susan Lofböm ~*~ Matthew Kelly ~*~ Chris Guerrero ~*~ Craig Mather ~*~ Paul Mallon ~*~ Hill44 ~*~ Alexander Rodriguez ~*~ Jeff Gaebler ~*~ James Domec ~*~ Khamla Khongloth ~*~ Brandon Haag ~*~ Alarinnise ~*~ Charles Henggeler ~*~ Gabe Olah ~*~ Jason Broderick ~*~ Arthur Cuelho ~*~ Cole Depuy ~*~ Stephan Juba ~*~ Jeff Kollada ~*~ No0neSpecial ~*~ Tara C Mulkey ~*~ Otis Coley ~*~ Matthew Paulin ~*~ Michael Mooney ~*~ Mike Brown ~*~ Chase G Harstad ~*~ Kori Prins ~*~ Tim Nielsen ~*~ Eric Hontz ~*~ Charles Demarest ~*~ Matt ~*~ Zachary Nahrstadt ~*~ Christopher Cales ~*~ Mike Durie ~*~ Jason Davis ~*~ Brian Biggers ~*~ Dameon Cornish ~*~ Michael Moneymaker ~*~ Sean Fitzpatrick ~*~ Dwinald Lint III ~*~ Tyler Clifton ~*~ Jeremy Patrick ~*~ Top Cat 269 ~*~ Christopher Edstrom ~*~ Ronald C Abitz ~*~ David Simmons ~*~ Robert McCoard ~*~ Samuel DeBoard ~*~ Terry Carter ~*~ TheRou ~*~ Robert Howden ~*~ Joel Wilkinson ~*~ John ~*~ Cody Carter ~*~ B Liz ~*~ Jeff Ford ~*~ Blake Cawthon ~*~ Theodore Ursa ~*~ Stefan Holze ~*~ Brian Sutton ~*~ Gregory Lamberta ~*~ Tristan ~*~ DeseriDan ~*~ Gabe ~*~ Brian O. ~*~ David Florish ~*~ Kurt Borek ~*~ Cody Givan ~*~ Chad Arrington ~*~ Ken Giles ~*~ Daniel Jones ~*~ Samatha K. ~*~ Jenn Bean ~*~ Ben Foard ~*~ Corran Horn ~*~ Richard Papst ~*~ MrNyxt ~*~ Logan Cochrane ~*~ Daniel Glasson ~*~ David hoerner ~*~ Randall Kemper ~*~ Robert Whittaker ~*~ SpartanGER ~*~ Gavin Lawrenson ~*~ Carl Alston ~*~ Jjstone ~*~ Riley Dunn ~*~ Ryan Frank ~*~ Alkon Ramirez ~*~ Robert Jacobs ~*~ Robert Michael Barfield ~*~ Jerrod ~*~ J.G. Patton ~*~ Gslice100 ~*~ LordStabbers ~*~ subversion ~*~ Nathrielos ~*~ John Cothrin ~*~ Edward p Warmouth ~*~ MadManLoose ~*~ Korbin Wilson ~*~ Jose Ibarra ~*~ Yo dude ~*~ Sawyer Williams ~*~ Jenson Cockburn ~*~ Aristo ~*~ Gregory Johnson ~*~ Justin “Johnist” Johanson ~*~ Cheyene Adams ~*~ Thomas Lindsay ~*~ Morgan C Williams ~*~ Justin Cox ~*~ Joshua Morris ~*~ Frankie Gouge ~*~ Tanner Lovelace ~*~ Joshua Sullivan ~*~ Ian Weatherly ~*~ Patrick Glass ~*~ Jon Bryant ~*~ Dante ~*~ Brian McDonald ~*~ Brandon Lai ~*~ Timithy Klesick ~*~ Kevin Kollman ~*~ Jason Bryant ~*~ Sith ~*~ Mark Kewer ~*~ Cory Miller ~*~ Thomas Corbin ~*~ Emil Thoren ~*~ Andrew Nevius ~*~ Mizu Damen.

Other Books written by Daniel Schinhofen:

Last Horizon: (Completed.)

Last Horizon Omnibus

Binding Words:

Morrigan's Bidding

Life Bonds

Hearthglen

Forged Bonds

Flame of War

Alpha World: (Completed.)

Gamer for Life

Forming the Company

Alpha Company

Playing for Keeps

Fractured Spirit

The Path to Peace

Darkhand

Gamer For Love

Apocalypse Gates Author’s Cut:

Rapture

Valley of Death

Gearing Up

Elven Accord

Downtime and Death

Can of Worms

Unexpected Dev-elopments

Aether’s Revival:

Aether's Blessing

Aether's Guard

Luck’s Voice:

Suited for Luck

NPC’s Lives:

Tales from the Dead Man Inn

Resurrection Quest:

Greenways Goblins

I would like to point you all toward some fellow authors whose works I enjoy:

William Arand: Author of the complex interconnected series in the genre which all starts with Otherlife Dreams.

https://www.amazon.com/William-D.-Arand/e/B01AY7PSG4

Blaise Corvin: Author of Delvers LLC, which is an amazing GameLit series.

https://www.amazon.com/Blaise-Corvin/e/B01LYK8VG5

Scottie Futch: Is a prolific author who can be found on Royal Road and Amazon. Scottie combines parody with zany humor that keeps me laughing.

https://www.amazon.com/Scottie-Futch/e/B00NCSEN28

Michael Scott-Earle: He’s back, but not on Amazon. You can find all of his books through his own website, and through his Kickstarters and Indiegogos.

https://www.michaelscottearle.com/

Eden Redd: She might be mentioned last but she is definitely not least, and she is very worth the read, more so if you like some adult content. Her Lewd Saga series combines erotica and LITRPG.

https://www.amazon.com/Eden-Redd/e/B00I8X8BCK

To find more LitRPG Books, please check out the Amazon store: https://www.amazon.com/litrpg

You can also find out more about LITRPG stories at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitRPGGroup/