Book excerpt: This is a fantasy fiction and sweet romance short story (word count 3,095). Maria has always cared for her carefree friend Ali, but the thought of leaving all she has known to start upon a long journey with him leaves her afraid. However when Ali is captured and held prisoner fear becomes the last thing on her mind, as Maria desperately looks for a way to save him. And it is when all hope seems to be lost that Maria learns something new about Ali that will make her question the strength of their friendship as well as herself!