The Specter of Kazzak

 

In the dark lit place where the smog gathers... Nothing ever stays dead.

​

Underground alchemy, shady dealings, and collecting favors have been the only life Sykes Laika has known since his ex-best friend Duncan tried to kill him fifteen years ago. Keeping to the shadows and staying one step ahead of those connected to his past has ensured he never has to deal with his ex-best friend again.

That is, until Sykes finds two girls dumped on his doorstep in the middle of the night—Duncan’s adopted daughters. And a note with them claims that Duncan has been arrested and, while he serves time, chose Sykes to look after his girls.

Turning them away would force the girls to live on the street, but taking them in means becoming a parent overnight—a role he was never prepared for or wanted—and facing his and Duncan’s bloody history head on. To make matters worse, Duncan’s daughters, especially the older one, quickly show that they don’t even like Sykes, let alone trust a man who was never a part of their lives. Sykes must learn how to care for his would-be killer’s daughters all while hiding his identity as an illegal alchemist, amidst teenage growing pains and backstabbing high rollers.