The Strings

== The Strings ==
"The Strings" by James Worrad is a story in the anthology Burning with Optimism's Flame edited by Jay Eales for Obverse Books.
== Synposis ==
As the ruling elite of Whubir, the Odalisques, manipulate the common people tthough drugs and ancient imagery, they also plot against each other using all the tools available. It is an old game, but one that one Odalisque, Linbah Crowthorne, has struck deals with off-worlders, deals that come with hidden costs to both Crowthorne and all of Whubir...
== Notes ==
* Starshark semen is a rare commodity, valued for its rejuvanative properties. 
* The Hoidrac were an ancient race of empire builders, with "draconic features".