Kervin specialized in terraturgy, a primal method that draws power from the land itself. In private, Otts had always regarded it as a lesser form of magick, relying so much on the outside world. Now, as they headed towards the stage, Otts welcomed the grounding effects of Kervin's abilities.

Not long after, a troupe of dusky minstrels stepped onto the platform. Their leader - a wiry, ashen-faced bard - grabbed the magnavox.

"We're Rodents of Unusual Size and we came all the way from Salamanca," he sneered, "This one's called 'As Above, So Below.' 1, 2, 3... GO!"

The song was amateur as heck - three basic chords on a detuned lyre - but it was enough to rouse the audience. Kervin was too caught up to keep the spell going. The duo flailed along, their bodies caught in the ebb of the crowd.

That's when Kervin made eye contact with a burly lad in a sleeveless tunic that showed off the runes tattooed on his thick arms. The young man caught his glance and flashed him a noncommittal smile. That was more than enough for Kervin to forget his pal, as he inched his way closer to his would-be paramour.

Without Kervin's magick to stabilize him, Otts was quickly overpowered by the wild throng. As he struggled to find his balance, his willowy frame was hurled to the ground.

All around him was a flurry of mud, boots, and noise. The punk riffs echoed through his skull. He felt his breaths shorten. His vision went blurry as he struggled to focus. That's when he looked up to see a gloved hand reaching out for him.