A time that is so far in the future teenagers will no longer understand Star Trek references, apparently. Think Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire mated with The Hunger Games good times, right? So, based on a World Trade Center plot device that was totally unneeded I would guess that this book takes place in the very near future, like 2024ish.

Midori let out a spark of bemused consternation as a small face with a shock of red hair disappeared amid the branches of a nearby beech tree.This book was without a doubt entertaining and it was enjoyable to read but in really did have a sever lack of originality. I was wiping my forehead with my sleeve when a tiny object flew through the air and pattered at my feet. The mountains rising on either side blocked the harshest of the sun’s rays, but the summer heat still hung over us. Seeing no sign of Rin or her home, we pushed deeper into the valley. When we reached the waterfall, we walked along the slick stone around the pools. “I suppose it would make the most sense for Sage Rin to live near the bottom of the valley- close to the water and sheltered from the weather.” We hurried down the steep incline into the thicker vegetation, grasping saplings and bushes to keep our balance. We don’t know what else might be lurking.” I eyed the forest. “I don’t think we should draw too much attention to ourselves. No roads cut through the forest below us, and no roofs showed through the trees. A delicate floral scent mixed with the crisp smell of cypress in the breeze. Below us, a waterfall burbled over pinkish-gray rock into a series of egg-shaped pools, shaded by stands of bright green bamboo. Sun had reached its peak, we crossed the ridge of a low mountain and looked down into a narrow valley. “ Do you have any idea where they are now?” I asked. I wasn’t the one who needed him, not anymore. Liked knowing I hadn’t lost that one last piece of my old life. Maybe some part of me had liked feeling he was looking out for me still.

I should have realized it would take more than that. I’d thought he would put Chiyo, as the real daughter of his rulers, first I’d thought, when I’d told him we wouldn’t be more than friends, he’d let go. Maybe even more loyal than he felt to the mountain itself, since he’d been specifically assigned to watch over me. He still felt loyal to me, even if he shouldn’t. I’d just said it to Keiji, hadn’t I? Takeo didn’t decide, he just followed his nature. Even if he’d worried about my vague explanation, how could he have put finding me ahead of saving Mt. But what was Takeo thinking? I’d left that note so he’d know I’d gone of my own accord. If I’d said you’d gone to the mountain, they’d have gone too, wouldn’t they? Without all they need to defeat the demon? I couldn’t be responsible for that.” She was right-the outcome probably would have been worse if she’d spoken up.

“You said I shouldn’t tell Chiyo what I’d told you.

Ruthless Magic by Megan Crewe