The Matchstick Assassin [ONC 2020]

Failing her duty as an apprentice Limiren, Valena looks on as the great church bells of Villdesong toll the death of Saint Friar. Killed by an assassins blade. With only a handful of hair and a bruised ego, Valena must work to uncover where the assassin has hidden herself before she and Valena's career disappear completely.

But greater events transpire behind the curtain of darkness and only a match sticks flame can suss it out. Valena will have to face what lies just beyond the embers, and take with it the responsibility this knowledge comes with.

The Matchstick Assassin was inspired by the Open Novella Contest Prompt #26: Every time she lights a match, she escapes into a new world.