Page 28 of My Fated Minotaur Hero

I hunch over her, bringing my torch closer.

Sure enough, there is a star right over the watchtower, where Zoe appeared.”

“And look, there’s one here. This is your tavern, isn’t it?”

She’s right. And there are other markings too, in places scattered throughout town.

"This is an honest to god clue," Olivia says, her eyes shining with excitement. "Don't you see? This could be the key to understanding how I got here!”

“This is certainly very intriguing ...” But my mind is going a mile a minute.

Whatever this is it is nothing to mess around with. Troll Spit, but it I wish Elowen was here.

When my friends get back, we will go investigate, okay, I promise. But it just isn’t safe.

My heart sinks a little though at the look of disappointment that comes over her.

“I didn’t pop into your incredible world ... and muscly arms by the way, to sit around in a musty old basement Kalen. Maybe we can make a really, really, good disguise?”

“It’s just not that simple Olivia.”

“Why not? Why can’t it be that simple.”

“Look, youdidjust pop in, okay, but there are politics, other considerations I have to keep in mind ...” It’s out of my mouth before I have a chance to stop it.

Suddenly she looks down. “I’m sorry. You’re right. Gosh, look at me, acting like I own the place. It’s your magical village. Of course, you know best. I never should have opened my mouth without checking my flashcards first.”

Oh no.

I knew it was too much.

I see a single tear roll down her cheek.

Dammit Kalen. Now I’ve done it.

“No sweetheart, It’s not your fault. Maybe we can find a way, maybe...”

I see the tiniest hint of a smile.

“Really?”

Oh boy. I am starting to realize just how bad I’ve really got it for her.

CHAPTER 9

OLIVIA

Ican't believe I'm actually back out exploring Fablewood, even if I am dressed like some kind of eccentric forest hermit. Kalen insisted it was the safest disguise, and I have to admit, it's effective. The best of the three we’ve tried so far, I think. The oversized robe he pulled from his closet, now covered in dirt and leaves, does a great job of hiding my human features. But it's not exactly comfortable. I keep getting poked by sticks, and it's hard to see with no peripheral vision to speak of.

Part of me is still freaking out - I mean, hello, magical hidden village full of mythical creatures! - but mostly I'm buzzing with excitement. We have a mystery to solve!

"Okay, so the symbol-seal thing was on that building over there," I say, pointing across the square. "And on the map, there were more scattered around town. We should check those locations."

Kalen nods, but I can tell he's distracted. His eyes keep darting around, like he's expecting trouble.

"Sure thing, Forest Hermit. But let's be quick about it, alright?"

I frown, adjusting my hood. "If it’s between ‘ForestHermit’ and ‘Fuzzwhip,’ I think I will go with Fuzzwhip. Regardless, what's the rush? This could be the key to understanding how I got here. Don't you want to know?"

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