Of course, because the story was about "the contrast between Ruth's bleak life in the Rat Nest and her wonderful life after coming to Free City," some details needed to be "artistically adjusted"—like her true identity and the fact that she had a hundred Gold Narls to her name.
Evelyn had offered her an interview fee and promised to portray her in a positive light, so the Incubus accepted the interview. It certainly wasn't because she felt an inexplicable fondness for Evelyn.
"Your story will have to end here for now. I'm leaving," the Incubus said regretfully.
"Leaving? Where?" Evelyn stood stunned in the doorway, paper and pen in hand.
"I'm going to the Far North with the Gnawtooth Clan."
"I'll ask Annan if someone else can go."
Evelyn made to leave, but the Incubus stopped her. "Don't. I... volunteered."
Evelyn studied her for a moment, then shook her head like Tom in Cat and Mouse. "Sigh. Another one."
"Another what?"
"Another person who'll become famous through my writing."
"It doesn't have to be that positive, actually, as long as you pay me more." The Incubus wanted to make some money before she left. Rus would be the one losing face. What did that have to do with Peggy?
"It's not about whether you look good. Once you're gone, who'll give me inspiration? Wait—why don't you take me with you?" Evelyn said, struck by an idea.
"You? Can you come?"
"Probably not..." Evelyn could almost picture the anxious look on Annan's face if she asked him.
The Incubus pinched her Ratfolk whiskers. "I don't have any more stories to tell you anyway. By the way, do you know where I can read about the Northern Frontier's history?"
"I do."
Faced with the Incubus's skeptical look, Evelyn said, "Where else in