CM Simpson: Writer & Gamer

This week’s short story takes us from a science fiction setting where an investigator gets more than they bargained for to a fantasy tale of trade, where spiders have their own wares to sell. Welcome to The Magicians & the Silk Road . Hani is surprised when his wife joins him on the journey to barter for spider silk, moreso when she brings their children. Nothing, however, prepares him for what the children do when they meet the spider queen. The Magicians & the Silk Road is available as a stand-alone short story at the following links: books2read.com/u/mZwWY2 . You can also find Kristine Kathryn Rusch's latest free short story over on her blog: kriswrites.com . Why don't you go and check it out?

This week’s short story takes us from a fantasy tale of one very lucky servant to the fantasy world of Tallameera where two siblings discover their magic to save a dying fairy. Welcome to Magick on the Forest's Edge . Forced to flee with her village, priestly apprentice, Althessa, discovers that danger comes in many guises and salvation is often unexpected. When their undead pursuers are slain by an unknown force, Althessa assists her mistress in consecrating their remains to ensure they cannot return from the dead, yet again. But magick calls from a nearby forest, and another life is in danger. One of those responsible for bringing down their pursuers is balanced on the edge of death. With the priests too busy to assist, and only her wizardly brother to assist, can she perform the healing required, or will the attempt bring death to all who dare it? Magick on the Forest's Edge They were three weeks into their flight before the forest came into view. ...