Song of the Forever Rains (Mousai, #1)

by E.J. Mellow

“I am not one to judge others for their scars or misfortunes.”

Darius opened and closed his mouth, a fish out of water. “I . . . I hardly think that is an appropriate question.” “So?” “So it shouldn’t be asked.” “The propriety of something should have no bearing on its value. In fact, most improper topics contain more important conversations than proper ones.”

“Magic can only be used by those with the lost gods’ gifts,” explained Larkyra. “Your stepfather is not blessed but has been injecting himself with magic that has been siphoned from those who are, which causes it to sour, become poisonous, turning it into a highly addictive substance called phorria. It acts as a drug to normal mortals, giving them a sense of ecstasy while allowing them superficial powers. It will corrupt the soul of any man or woman if taken for too long.