Embersoul: Embersoul Codex, #1

By Emi Phoenix

Alenikka, the last hope for a shattered kingdom, fights for redemption amidst a world torn by war. General Magnus, haunted by betrayal, unearths a sinister plot to sacrifice his loved ones. In their battle against the wicked King, Alenikka, the rightful heir, and Magnus, once loyal to the usurper, forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they face relentless wizards, ruthless assassins, and mystical forces seeking to annihilate them. As the heirs of the deposed dynasty rise, the destiny of the kingdom hangs in the balance. Can they defy the odds and halt the seven abominations from obliterating the world? Embark on a thrilling journey of sacrifice, resilience, and a warrior's pursuit of justice in this epic fantasy adventure.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Emi Phoenix
• Release date: Jun 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223940500

Book preview

Prologue

The rigging tore at Reinhardt’s flesh as he steadied himself against the jarring sway of the storm-besieged ship. The massive white-capped swells crashed across the deck while ominous cracks filled the sky above.

Aurick! Start the ritual! He had to shout at the top of his voice for his brother to hear his command from only feet away.

Aurick released a hand from the loose forestay and cast it forward, blood-smeared palm out, shouting something Reinhardt couldn’t make out. He looked down at the corpse at Aurick’s feet—he was thankful for his sister-in-law Lokira’s sacrifice. A swirling gust surrounded the ship, whipping the elements into a vortex of freezing droplets. The ocean beneath swelled, pushing them high atop a wave, suspending them above the sea. The gray sky suffused with a spreading pool of crimson as it parted to the heavens.

You may only call on one! You must do it now before the portal closes! Aurick strained to remain steady in the whipping winds.

A flash of lightning illuminated the nine other faces scattered on the deck; his brother Aurick, wife Carine, and children aged from fifteen to just a babe. This was the only chance he had at making sure his children did not die on this roiling, angry ocean. He had to call the name of an elder god, so his first instinct was the god he served, Ridan the Righteous—it would be blasphemous to invoke any other. They had slept for millennia, their power and influence gone and nearly forgotten in the wake of the new gods that had risen to power. As he opened his mouth to shout the name, a fear blossomed in his heart. Ridan was the wise choice, but righteousness alone would not serve his family—no, he must call another. It must be a god that would give his children exactly what he displayed to his subjects—heart.

Reinhardt swept his gaze around the ritual circle, taking in each member of his family and finally resting on his ebony-haired twins. I call upon Kormay, the World Heart! Hear my plea, please reveal thyself to me!

No! Through the turbid soundscape, Reinhardt could scarcely hear Aurick’s futile protest—it was too late.

Water ran over the sides and pooled on the deck in the center of the circle. The shape of a woman formed of solidifying water and rested her translucent eyes on Reinhardt.

You call for the World Heart? Her voice echoed hollowly as if he were hearing it submerged in the depths. Reinhardt Embersoul, a king unable to keep his throne. What is it you wish from me?

His words were lost. Over the last half of the day, he had gone over them time and again, practicing them even as his royal family fled the coup led by the treasonous Orboros family and their legion of men. The only resolve he had was to protect his family.

Please, Kormay, I wish for protection for my children. His eyes trailed to the two babies not even a year old. He’d hardly gotten to know the one born only a week ago. Do not let their lives end here.

The watery figure regarded him for a moment. He could almost make out a smirk rising on her lips. "You invoke an ancient and lost rite to compel an elder god to grant you a wish... and this is what you ask?"

Yes, great World Heart. This is what I ask. He nodded solemnly, unafraid of the tendrils penetrating his thoughts to judge his altruism.

Man has taken much from the Gods—especially me. Kormay strode slowly toward him, leaving no moisture in her wake. Very well, I am compelled to grant your request...

Thank you, Kormay! Reinhardt fell to his knees and placed his hands and head on the deck.

But... she continued. There will be a steep price to pay.

Reinhardt shot back to his feet. Tell me what I must do! I just want them to live their lives without fear of being hunted as my heirs.

You and your wife will give me your eternal souls. The smirk was not hidden this time. You will not rest in Algard; you will not see your children again in the afterlife. They will be safe for now, but they will not live another year.  The god spoke something in a tongue that Reinhardt had never heard and followed it with a wave of her hand.

Reinhardt’s jaw fell slack. The thought of his children being condemned to a ticking clock was far worse than dying here. The World Heart was known for her unending love and kindness—this is not what he expected. As he opened his mouth to protest, a hammer of light crashed onto the deck with a deafening clang. Sparks shot outward and showered the innards of the vortex. A tall man in shining armor stood between him and the goddess. He knew this face from the statues in the cathedral in Irogas—it was Ridan.

Baht the Cruel. He stared into the fluid depiction of Kormay’s face. Masquerading again, are you? Using mortal’s ignorance of Kormay’s true existence for your own benefit is heresy against the Pantheon. You agreed not to do this again.

I agreed to nothing! The form snarled at Ridan, allowing the translucence to give way to long pointed teeth. You forget yourself, Ridan, the... zealot! I temper your influence in this realm. You have no power over me here.

Ridan held firm and passed his gaze to Reinhardt. Though you have summoned a goddess who cannot be summoned, a boon is due you—I will grant your offspring protection until they have found their new lives.

Water splashed on the deck as Baht the Cruel abandoned her disguise. Enchantingly deep red eyes filled Reinhardt’s soul with horror as if he were staring into an endless pool of blood and lost souls. Baht closed the distance to Ridan in a single step. "I responded to the rite. By the same laws you serve, the gift is mine to give, and the gift I give is—"

A bolt of lightning, a gust of wind, an eruption of mud, and a swirling pink mist caused upheaval on the deck. Before Reinhardt knew it, five figures surrounded Baht the Cruel. All the likenesses were impeccably captured on the statues in the cathedral—six of seven elder gods stood on the deck of his ship.

Ridan took another step toward Baht, breaking the symmetry of the god’s circle. Baht the Cruel, you were warned that another transgression against the Pantheon would result in action. We have come to pass judgment upon you.

The blackened teeth dripped tar as his lips peeled back in a devilish grin. You may pass judgment upon me, but it is too late for these children. I have already condemned them to the seals, and you cannot undo that action.

The look of utter panic in the eyes of the five other elder gods forced Reinhardt’s question. What are the seals?

Ridan ignored his plea for answers. In unison, four of the five remaining elder gods placed their open hands upon Baht the Cruel’s dark blue skin, leaving branded prints. Baht the Cruel, in light of your treachery, you are sentenced to live as a mortal for one-hundred lifetimes. He placed his palm on Baht’s forehead, and the demon god burned out of existence.

The reason your summoning failed is that your depiction of Kormay is wrong. Ridan gestured in a wave with both arms. Kormay is not just the World Heart. Kormay is the World itself. She is a God, but mortals cannot communicate with her as we gods do. Only Urd can speak to her, but we feel her just as we do each other.

Please. Reinhardt prostrated himself before the five most powerful beings in existence. Tell me what is to become of my children.

The largest of the gods in both height and girth stepped forward. Reinhardt recognized his likeness as Mahloch the Wise. The seals are seven ancient portals we closed before the time of man. Behind those seals lay the abominations that threaten to destroy all of creation—and we gods ourselves.

We must know how he has condemned them if we wish to stop this injustice, Ridan spoke to the Gods, his back turned to Reinhardt.

Urd, commune with Kormay. A stunning woman that Reinhardt believed was Turaya ordered.

Urd the Primal was a figure well known to Reinhardt. She was the smallest of the statues of the Seven in the cathedral, resembling a haggard elderly witch. Urd’s eyes glowed an eerie yellow. He has cursed them to release the seals when the two parents perish.

Reinhardt fell to the deck as he watched the gods continue to converse. He knew their death was imminent—if the storm didn’t kill them, the Usurper’s men would. His brother and closest friend, Aurick, sat exhausted in a drenched blue robe across the deck. His wife Carine held the two youngest in her diminutive arms, tears flowing freely down her cheeks. Those old enough to walk on their own had retreated under a torn sail, shivering and weeping. The weight of the situation finally broke him. He tried the best he could to make the world a better place for them. It was ripped out of his hands just as he was on the verge of peace—torn away by a spoiled rich boy who refused to cede any of his lands in the name of peace. The end was near, not only for him but for his family, his Kingdom, and the world.

Ridan offered a hand to the broken king and pulled him to his feet. Reinhardt Embersoul, you have been righteous and true, with only one sin to your name. You have brokered peace across the lands like none before you have. For that, we offer you a gift. We cannot remove the curse of the seals, but we can alter it. To do so, we must have two souls—your souls.

His head was heavy. Bearing the weight of fatherly duty surpassed bearing the weight of a King’s duty. Crossing the deck of the ship, he took his wife’s shoulders in his hands.  I have asked much of you in this life.  I asked you for your hand.  I asked you to bear my children.  I asked you to give up our simple life in our home.

Carine gazed into his eyes, tears flowing, and she let out a short chuckle.  I do so miss that freezing little shack.

Reinhardt cupped her cheeks in his hands. I need to ask one more thing of you.

Rain beat on the deck, and wind swirled around as he placed his forehead on hers. Carine’s cries grew into sobs.  Her eyes passed from Reinhardt to the babes in her arms, then to somewhere in the distance. Reinhardt I—

You must choose now. Ridan’s deep stony voice resonated clearly through the cacophonous chaos.

Yes. Reinhardt made the choice for his wife, knowing she would agree.

Ridan continued. With your soul, we can alter the curse. The seals will only fall once your children perish. We are not at full strength. Having just awoken from torpor, we cannot stop them yet—perhaps we will be ready to face the abominations at that time. With Carine’s soul, each of us will grant one boon to each of your children that may help them bring back the peace you sought.

Reinhardt furrowed his brow. There are only five of you—I have seven daughters.

Just because Kormay cannot speak to us does not mean she does not agree with us.  Ridan approached the fallen king.  She will give a blessing, as well as a blessing from Baht, given under the Pantheon’s supervision.

I understand. Reinhardt gathered his wife and children in for an embrace. What will happen to my children? What of the crew of the ship? Some of them brought their children knowing they could never go home.

Once the barrier goes down, there is an enemy with cannons trained on you—this ship will be decimated. Ridan placed a hand on Reinhardt’s shoulder. The only survivors will be your children—and your brother. They will be cast apart into the world to grow and become more powerful. Some will remember who they are, some will not without help.

Reinhardt. Carine shook her head. I don’t think I—

We’re ready.  He placed a finger over her lips and drank in her cerulean eyes a final time.  Their spirits would not meet in Algard, and he would never see her beautiful plaited black hair again.

Ridan raised his glowing hammer high. The other gods followed, raising their weapons to meet his. They chanted in unison as the light got brighter—then, in a flash, the light dulled, and the bodies of the gods melted before Reinhardt’s eyes. Bone, blood, and viscera decorated the deck and dissipated in the downpour. Reinhardt stared down a hooded figure who stood in the center of where the gods once stood.

You will pay for what you’ve done, Embersoul. The hooded figure lowered the hood, and Reinhardt’s eyes shot wide. Or, rather, yours and Carine’s children will suffer as mine did.

Reinhardt fell to his knees. Please! You must understand! I could not abide treason!

The figure disappeared into the dark just as the first volley struck the ship.

Chapter 1

The sun hung in the western sky, blending blue and pink into magenta hues, enshrouded in billowy wisps. As long as Draxxi was back before Father returned from the market, she would be safe—if she could call it that. Time was something that she kept in short supply due to the responsibilities foisted upon her by her parents. Something felt different about today, though she did not know what it was. It could be the way the trees silhouetted against the vast canvas of beautiful scenery. It could be her nerves from becoming bolder with her excursions. She reached a hand out to stroke the mane of her beloved horse Daisy and inhaled deeply of the petrichor. Darkness would come soon, and it would be best if she were in bed before it came. She still had time, though.

The makeshift hammock she crafted from vine and welk leaves swung lazily in the breeze. Daisy walked freely around to graze but was within arm's reach for a pet most of the time. A shallow stream sang its peaceful tune nearby, begging for her to refresh herself in its current. It was peace, and she’d never been disturbed until recently. A caravan had settled in the barren expanse outside the edge of the wood just a month ago. No one from the camp ever bothered her, though they had passed by many times. She recalled a woman of great beauty surrounded by strong men ride through a week ago. The woman stopped and offered her food and chatted with her for a time before continuing on her journey. That was the most exciting thing that had happened in this place for the past eight years. For just over half her life, this has been her escape, and she loved it here.

Today was no different from a typical day at the stream since the caravan came. Raucous laughter occasionally bellowed over clashing swords, and an eerily attractive fire flickered in the center of the camp. Just before dusk, two men always patrolled near the road that connected the forest to the Drift. That was her signal to leave if she wanted to make it home on time. They never came too close, but she thought one of the guards looked a lot like one of her father’s customers. If he were, he would have surely said something to her, so it must have been her imagination. A chill crept up her spine as she shook the thoughts of that man out of her mind. The drop from the hammock was only a few feet higher than she stood, but she landed gracefully. She was parched and needed to quench her tongue, but only after she comforted her best friend.

One day, we’ll get away, Daisy. Draxxi stroked the horse’s mane. One day, I’ll hurt everyone who’s hurt me. And I’ll do it on your back. Queen Draxxi, they’ll call me—riding her noble stallion through the streets and dealing justice.

The horse snorted and lowered its head to the stream for a drink.

The slightest smile touched Draxxi’s lips, and she patted her pet. Good boy. I know you’ll never leave me.

Father was furious when she named her horse Daisy when she got it three years ago in her twelfth year. Apparently, it wasn’t befitting of a male horse to be given such a weak name. She didn’t care. It was a better name than his horse, Elethorn. The man who gifted her the horse had insisted that Father allow her to choose whichever name she wanted, and Father quit his protests. Probably out of fear of a loss of coin from the man’s daily visits. Father said the man was well off and very important in the realm. He couldn’t understand why he took a liking to Draxxi enough to gift her a horse. The man terrified her, but she couldn’t help but find herself deeply intrigued as well.

Draxxi knelt by the stream and cupped some water in her hand, and took a sip. The reflection in the water caused her to hesitate, and her heart jumped into her throat. When she looked back, the sun was nearly tucked behind what Father called Sarhod, a massive peak that loomed over the land. Confusion and panic set in, and she looked toward the road where the guardsman should have passed. It was unlike them to miss their patrol—they’d done it every day since they arrived. Something must be wrong at the caravan, but there was no time to investigate—and no will. She was going to be late. Bolting to her feet, she took the reins, rushed Daisy to the trade road, and then pulled herself into the saddle. If she was going to beat Father, she needed to push Daisy harder than she ever had.

With a snap of the reins, she led Daisy down the well-worn road. It would still be some time before she had to take the overgrown path that joined the rear of the farm. The wind blowing through her dirty ropey red hair was one of the things she most enjoyed in her life, but today it was overshadowed by dread. Only one time had she ever been late, and that was a day that was burned into her memory like a brand in flesh.

Rounding the first bend of three before her destination, she reined Daisy back. An amalgam of terror and deep arousal gripped her. What...what are you doing here?

A devilishly handsome man bared a toothy smile, dripping with scorn, as he blocked her path. If you continue to disobey me, I may just have to take Daisy back and tell your father of your little jaunts.

Fire and ice coursed through her veins, and she remained paralyzed. I...

Now, get down from there. He placed a hand on Daisy’s nose, earning an angry whinny.

All she had to do was spur her mount and take off, and she still might make it in time, but she couldn’t. The idea of obeying the man—this man—was as much exhilarating as it was terrifying. None of her interactions with him had been pleasant, but something deep inside stirred within her every time he was near. With a will that she wasn’t sure was altogether her own, she swung her malnourished leg over the saddle and slid to the ground. The man smacked Daisy’s haunch, sending her fleeing into the wood, her only hope of returning on time dashed.

The man slowly circled her. What was that you called me yesterday?

Quivering, Draxxi kept her eyes forward and soaked in the intimidation. P... para... Paratonek.

The back of her neck tickled as the man brought his nose close and inhaled. Where exactly did you hear that word? Do you know what it means?

Her peripheral vision fell away, narrowing to a pinprick of nothingness. The meager lunch she had turned tumultuously in her stomach as she shook so deep in her core that her teeth rattled upon answering. I d...d...d...don’t...t...kn...n...now.

The slow circle he walked completed just in front of her as his steely gaze penetrated her soul. I have a friend who knows languages well. And do you want to know what he told me it means?

The instinct that first struck her was to scream no. After all this man had put her through, the last thing she wanted was to hear anything he had to say, but there was a gnawing feeling that she needed to know. An uncomfortable urge fought its way to the forefront of her mind. Yes.

She kept still as he leaned ever closer, bringing his lips so close to her ear that she could feel his abrasive beard on her cheek. True love.

The shivering, queasy feeling now permeated her every fiber. These were feelings she couldn’t grasp the meaning of. She couldn’t understand her complete enthrallment with such a wicked man. No...

Paratonek placed his hand on her beltline and lifted the front of her tunic to expose her gaunt stomach. I don’t know where you heard the tongue of the Ancients, but that is assuredly what it means. Now, where did you hear it?

I...I...I...just felt it...from inside. At that moment, she felt a flicker of something inside. Some force that tried to push her closer—to embrace him, but she fought against it.

I don’t like being lied to. He pulled his hand from her and took two steps back, sneering. I think I’ve taken enough of your time now. You best hurry back, so your father doesn’t punish you. That’s going to be my job for lying to me.

The man turned on his heel and walked down the road whistling a tune she was well familiar with. Draxxi remained frozen until he was out of sight, then her knees buckled, and she fell to the ground. The adrenaline that flowed through her was wearing off and fatigue set in. Daisy was nowhere in sight, and she had no idea how she would make it home on time. Still shaking and exhausted, she tried to puzzle through the events that happened while she pushed herself to her feet. Despite all the hell, that man had put her through, something about him made her crave and fear him in near equal measure. Even in her weakened state, she could feel the slickness of her inner thighs, and her skin prickled and ached for his touch.

The trail was long, and Daisy had run toward home, so her best idea was to continue on the path and hope he made it home without her. She put every ounce of energy into running as fast as her still wobbly legs could carry her. As she rounded the second bend, the sun disappeared behind the mountain, and darkness crept in. After all, she had been through, mere lightlessness wasn’t enough to scare her as it did some of the other children at church, but it did make it harder to navigate. This was the longest stretch of her journey, between the second and third bend. After that, the trail to her home could be run in only a few minutes by Daisy.

In the distance, hoofbeats clattered toward her—from the sound, two horses. Could it be that someone found Daisy and was trying to return him to her? Wanting to take precautions, she ducked behind a welk tree as two riders slowed on their approach. Girl. Are you okay? We will not hurt you.

The voice was familiar, and as she inspected with squinted eyes, she could see it was the woman from the caravan and one of her guards. Why had she come? Draxxi wondered if she had seen the events that just unfolded. Something inside pushed past her surface thoughts and told her the woman was insidious and would only harm her. Trust was something she only gave to Daisy, but this feeling was altogether foreign.

Draxxi emerged slowly from behind the tree. I...I’m okay.

The woman dismounted and approached. She was only slightly taller than Draxxi, with gorgeous flowing black hair. Who was that man? Did he harm you?

A multitude of answers crossed her mind. On one hand, Draxxi could tell the woman of her history with the man, but that would only cause more trouble than she wanted. The likelihood of him retaliating against her was high, and that was something she didn’t want right now. It seemed more plausible to keep this interaction as short as possible and only answer the bare minimum to get through it and get home. On the other hand, the woman did come to aid her against one man and could be her salvation. In the end, familiarity won the argument.

He is a friend of my father’s. Her jaw tensed as she lied. No, he didn’t hurt me.

The rugged man on the horse peered down the road in the direction Paratonek went. Are you sure? We can protect you if he means to hurt you.

It's okay. A tether inside her felt as if it was unraveling—like it was trying to pull her from this woman.

See if you can find him, Tekark. I’ll take the girl home. The woman watched as the man rode away into the night. What are you doing out here so late? You’re usually gone by now.

The woman was kind when they had met before, but she couldn’t trust anyone’s motives. I leave when your guards patrol. I didn’t see them today.

I see. The woman cast a glance down the road. We were preparing for visitors tomorrow. Where do you live? You can stay at our camp if you wish.

I c...can't. Just the thought of staying with the woman shook her. I have to get home now, and my horse is missing. My farm is just through these woods—there is a path around the next corner.

The woman looked at her horse, at her camp, then in the direction Tekark rode. Come, I’ll take you.

Draxxi cautiously accepted and mounted the horse behind the woman. Touching the woman soothed her in a way she couldn’t describe. It was like finding inner peace and understanding that the way of things would be a rough one, and it may not end well, but she would not be alone. There was no doubt that what this woman was doing was meant to happen. These feelings that pried into her thoughts were the strangest thing she’d ever known—all from embracing this stranger.

The woman spurred her horse, who was much faster than Daisy. They covered the distance to the path in less than half the time she had, even at full gallop. After going half the distance to the farm, Daisy lingered on the side of the path where the wood opened on one side to a clearing of grass. Stop. That’s my horse.

Reining back, the woman nodded at the dilapidated farmhouse in the distance. Is that your home?

Yes. Draxxi threw her leg over and slid to the ground effortlessly. Thank you. I have to hurry.

You’re welcome. The woman stopped her just before she sped off on Daisy. If you need help, you can come see me. Don’t let him hurt you—find your spark.

With no time to respond, she cut across the field. It left her exposed to being caught, but her time was too short. Nearing the house, she peered back over her shoulder to see the woman still looking on. She remained in the same spot until Draxxi cut behind the stable and into the stall marked with a carved Daisy. Draxxi bolted toward the house at top speed, then climbed up the makeshift rope she’d fashioned to drop from her bedroom window. As she reached the sill and pulled herself through, the knot of the rope came loose and fell to the ground. There was no time to retrieve it now. Father wouldn’t go behind the house tonight.

The plain white nightdress lay on her bed, waiting as she stripped the trousers and tunic off quickly. Pulling the dress over her head, she glimpsed the woman at the far end of the property, still looking on. It dawned on Draxxi that she hadn’t gotten the woman’s name, and she would need to the next time they met so she could thank her for her help. From outside the room, she heard the front door creak open. She’d made it just in time. The covers of her bed were pulled back, waiting for her to climb under them, and she did, hoping Father was drunk so that what came next would not be so bad. Draxxi squeezed her eyes tight and prayed he just went to bed tonight.

Chapter 2

Banithel’s palms turned clammy as he clenched his fists and lost himself in Nekaia’s beauty. In just a few hours, their souls would be bonded together eternally—irrevocably. The longstanding tradition of reaching into the void and tearing a bonding spirit away to couple two souls for eternity was a choice that required absolute certainty. Bonding spirits were powerful intermediaries that existed long before the gods that tethered two or more souls to each other throughout every lifetime until all existence ceased. Bonding ceremonies were not simply gestures of exclusivity, much like marriages on the mainland. Though his mother died eleven years ago, his father had never once regretted bonding with her, and he actively pressured Banithel to bond as well. He didn’t need to be convinced.

Banithel took Nekaia’s hand in his. Is this where you go when you disappear for hours at a time lately?

Nekaia turned her gaze over the boundless sea, her eyes focused on the red line on the horizon. It’s my secret spot. Sometimes, I come up here to think. She sat on a large flat rock on the highest peak of the Mooncrest Isles. I wonder if I came from the mainland.

Banithel sat on the rock next to her, releasing one hand. For a time, he didn’t speak. He only consumed the stunning vista. I don’t care where you come from. I only care where you’re at now.

The look she gave him was one he knew well. You already have me, Bane. You don’t need to continue to woo me with your pretty words.

Sometimes, I still can’t believe I’ve found someone that I’m willing to commit my soul to for eternity. Bane loved the way she tolerated none of his foolishness.

Doesn’t it scare you? Nekaia released his hand and crept toward the sheer cliff face, her toes hanging off the edge. You know—void souls—all of eternity; it’s so much. You saw what happened with Torna and Daru.

Trying to focus on anything other than her death-defying proximity to the edge was difficult, but he trusted she knew what she was doing. Torna and Daru’s bonding ceremony was five years ago and the last the village had held before tonight. Father said it was because their souls were not compatible—that one of them knowingly hid something from the other.

What if I’m hiding something from you? Her hair danced over her shoulders in the heavy breeze.

It wasn’t a question that he knew how to answer. The thought that the woman he adored could hide something from him was evanescent. You aren’t.

You can’t be sure of that, Bane. When she turned to face him, her expression was one of worry and pain. There are things I’ve sworn never to tell anyone—even you.

That was the one thing Bane had never questioned her dedication on. Ever since she had washed ashore when she was five, she’d refused to talk about her past. At first, his father said she was in too much pain to speak of it, that she would come around. But, all these years later, she still hadn’t opened that part of herself to him.

That’s different. He rose and placed his hands on her shoulders, peering deep into her eyes. I know there are things about you that are too painful to reveal, but I accept and love you with everything I have, nonetheless.

Don’t you ever wonder what it is? He knew she was searching his face for a crack—one she would not find.

Of course, I do. Bane nodded. However, my curiosity is outweighed by my respect for you to make your own choices. Would you permit me one curious question, though, being the day of our bonding?

A coldness crept over her expression. That would depend on what the question is.

Already planning on evoking the reaction he did, he was ready. Why? Why do you want to hide a part of you from everyone?

The iron-clad stoicism relaxed, and she let him in again. I don’t want those things to define who I am. I want to choose my own path.

The corner of his mouth raised, and he let out a sigh. I can live with that. I love who you are, not who you were. It can’t be that bad, though.

The icy blue hue of her eyes was haunting—and unmistakably the trait that first caught his attention and sucked him into the vortex of unending bliss. When those same eyes trailed from his to focus on something in the distance behind him, he worried. I could be from the mainland. Or maybe Zaua.

All nine of the Mooncrest Isles were visible from their perch above the ring of mist. Serevak, north of Zaua, was also visible—and he could see it behind her. He thought it odd—she knew her geography well. He turned and gestured to the horizon. You know that’s Iwagata.

Maybe Iwagata is my mainland. Her thick sandy blonde hair swept across her cheek in the warm breeze. How do you know I’m not of Iwagata descent?

In his travels as the village chief’s son and envoy, he had met many people from many lands—but she hadn’t. Taking a step toward the continent, he gazed at its majesty. The Iwagata possess distinct facial—

Bane. Nekaia raised her eyebrows at him. I wish you would stop coddling me. Don’t you remember I was present for the Iwagata envoy’s visit last fall?

A grin tugged at his lips, and he shook his head. Maybe I’m the one who needs a lesson. I’m sor—

A childlike giggle cut him off. In his periphery, a playful smile played on her face. You do need to be taught a lesson.

Before he could respond, she bounded down the steep jungle path, taunting him to give chase. The grin turned into a full smile as he shook his head and chuckled. That girl could always break the dour mood and push just the right buttons. Already far ahead of him, he examined all the possible routes through the trees to gain an advantage. The best part about the isle of Riksa was that it was uninhabited. None of the islanders wanted to live below a grumbling volcano, so there were no structures to block his view of Nekaia or his destination. Their home isle, Luskiene, had many structures dotting the landscape for various utilities, making it hard to go anywhere but on the predetermined path. Here, though, they were free.

To his right was a massive drop into a verdant valley. The path Nekaia took skirted the outer edge of the valley, so he looked for a way to cut his path shorter. A giant ancient tree jutted through the mist and nearly reached the volcano’s peak. Thick vines crossed through the ravine, hanging from every branch and each of the smaller trees. His target in sight, he sized up the outcropping he stood on—if he missed the vine, he would paint the jungle floor red. With a running start, Bane pushed off into a freefall, keeping his eyes locked on the vine. The momentum he would gain was something he completely forgot to consider, as was the burning of his palms as he fumbled his grip. A baser instinct took over as he tumbled head over foot toward the expanse thousands of feet below.

His mind calmed, and the adrenaline halted as an innate force took hold. Darkness covered his body, enveloping him in shadow and joining him with the shadows cast by the tree. From one shadow, he jumped to the next, and from that one, one further, until he found the safety of a handhold and peeled from the darkness. Then, regaining a firm hold, he sailed through the air. At the arc of his swing, he released and careened to the path below, landing hard and rolling through to avoid injury.

I’ll leave you in irons on the bed tonight for that! He heard her call from behind him.

That’s not a punishment! In his mind, he very well knew she would leave him manacled and take a long walk on the beach just for spite.

A similar but smaller valley lay on the opposite side of the path. If he were going to win, he would have to continue his trek through the treetops to stand a chance—she was a much faster runner. Hand over hand, he swung from vine to vine, propelling off the sturdier branches as he descended. Nekaia had long been out of sight as he continued the traversal toward the next interlude of the snaking path. Contacting the ground was much smoother this time. By his estimates, this was the halfway mark to the bottom, so he would take a moment to catch his breath. A twig snapped behind him, and he turned just in time to see Nekaia tackle him to the ground, sending the two rolling to a stop, half hanging from the next steep ledge.

For a moment, they rested panting, Nekaia atop him with a wicked grin. This was the spirit he lived for—playful and strong. She pecked his lips and rolled to the side, sliding feet first down the nearly vertical embankment. Adrenaline kicked in as he readied his dive after her until he saw she had complete control of her descent. There was no way he could match her pace now, he thought, unless... He bolted to the bend of the mountain path, peering warily over the sheer cliff face—just as he thought, the sea crashed against the base. No end of ill could befall him from this height—nearly two hundred feet. The water was open and deep. He was sure of that as he had jumped from the lower cliff many times. If he wanted to win this race against her, he would have to jump. Once he reached the bottom, he could get to the boat with time to spare. He took a deep breath, pushed aside his fear, and vaulted as far away from the side as he could.

It was a feeling nearly rivaling the rush he got every time he saw her. Spiders crawled over every inch of his skin, leaving gooseflesh in their wake. His mind focused only on his trajectory and landing. Legs crossed at the ankles and arms folded over his chest, he counted the seconds before he would have to inhale as much air as his lungs could hold. One second turned into two, two into four, four seemed to stretch into forever—then cold—all around, prying at his chest, freezing the beat of his heart. The pressure threatened to squeeze the life from him as his arms and legs involuntarily flailed. Gradually, the weight lifted, allowing him to gain control of his faculties and pull himself above the surface to gasp for sweet air.

The beach was empty. Nekaia had not yet made her way out of the jungle—he could win. Through exhaustion, he paddled his way to the sand and made a dash for his target. Only fifty feet from the boat, a large branch, stripped of its leaves, flew into his periphery and between his legs, sending him face-first into the golden powder. Footsteps rushed past him and toward the boat, causing him to reach instinctively for Nekaia’s leg, putting her in a similar predicament. She clawed at the sand fruitlessly for a moment before turning to kick his hand free of her ankle. She dove out and touched the boat first.

Bane pushed himself out of the wet sand and stood over his prone betrothed, folding his arms over his chest and grinning. You cheated.

Nekaia stared up at him, panting heavily. Ha! You just can’t stand to lose!

Before he knew it, she wrapped her legs around his and leveraged him to the ground, pouncing atop him. We have some time before we must get back.

Then let us not waste this moment. Wrapping his arms around her, he rolled over and pinned her arms to the sand.

Long had he known how amazing this woman was, but it wasn’t until now that he truly saw her for everything she was. Playful and bold, confident, and loving—if he had any doubts about the bonding before, they had just vanished. Scenes of hunting together well into their old age played through his mind. Everything was just as it should be—everything was perfect. Never would there be a day spent away from this magnificent creature. Even if—

I guess I have to take matters into my own hands. She twisted her arm, breaking it free, and overpowered Bane, taking her place atop him again.

Leaning down, she placed her lips on his, and the world fell away—there was only Nekaia. She broke the kiss only long enough to pull her tunic over her head before she latched back on his lips. The girl got more insatiable each passing day, and he was all too happy to oblige her growing needs. Control was not a thing that Bane relinquished easily, but Nekaia—she took it from him. That made him feel safe.

Chapter 3

L ook—there. What is that on the horizon? Bane stretched his wiry arm out toward a dot shadowing the rising moon. Is that a ship? Who would come at this hour?

He hastened toward the party, motioning for his half-giant friend Kilgore to follow. Fellow tribesman looked on quizzically as they ran toward the fishing hut on the other end of the shore to grab a telescope and bolt to the end of the jetty. Bane pulled the three telescopic sections to length and shot his gaze toward the anomaly. Indeed, it was a ship. Though, it was too hard to make out the colors being flown on its sail from this distance and time of night. He tugged at his well-maintained goatee in thought.

A hardened hand clapped Bane on the shoulder. Bane dropped the telescope and saw his father Khamdar, the village chief and leader of the Mooncrest Isles. Don’t worry, we are expecting guests for the event.

Guests? Bane puzzled.

The aged man beckoned him back toward the party with a jerk of his head. King Orboros is sending envoys to witness my son’s bonding and to enter into talks of reestablishing trade.

The breeze pushed Bane’s wispy black hair over his cheek as he continued to gaze across the ocean at the oncoming ship. Are you sure this is wise?

Trust me, Bane. Khamdar’s long white and green ritual robe dragged across the sand as he turned with a flourish to amble back to the gathering.

I don’t like this. Kilgore stood before Bane, the moonlight illuminating the deep scar that ran from his chin to his cheek, splitting his lip. The telescope looked like a child’s toy in the behemoth’s hands. Those don’t look like the colors of the Kingdom from here. Those sails look black as night.

He’s never given us cause to doubt his judgment. Just as he finished speaking, the ceremonial shell sounded, signaling the beginning of the festival that would culminate in his bonding. He pushed the white tunic into the black trousers, the standard ceremonial bonding garb, and pushed off. Come, let us enjoy this night. Maybe Chirayna will ask you to dance tonight.

A bonfire illuminated the night sky. Cinders danced high into the heavens forming new constellations next to the stars. The scent of grilled meat wafted on the breeze. Saaba, a pineapple and tomato dish served on flattened bread, was being prepared by the best cooks in the village under the newly constructed pavilion. Bane often joked with Nekaia that if she didn’t choose him to bond, he would have bonded with Saaba. Boys and girls of bonding age danced and mingled on the open sand. Some held hands, some held each other close, and a few left to find privacy in the distance on the darkened parts of the shore. The younger children danced around the maypoles and played games with the caretakers.

The adults and already bonded congregated near the food, chattering about their nostalgia from watching the young ones find love. Near the water, space was left clear for those who wanted to play Popeku. Bane was the captain of his team, the Mooncrest Ravens, so he took a moment to watch his fellow teammates as they practiced their new plays. On the side of the Popeku field was his ever-inspiring younger sister, Ilanyx. She was the only girl who took Popeku so seriously, and she had become something of a mascot to the team. Every day she pestered Bane to let her play, but he had to remind her that no one under eighteen years could play, and she had seven more to go.

The Luskienes were the most prominent tribe on the Isles, totaling forty-one adults and thirty-three children. None of them missed the Ireya’s Heart festival. It was the one night each year when bonding rituals were performed, and bonding partners could be chosen for the following year. Rarely was it seen that someone was left out, and when it happened, it was unintentional. The Luskienes were a supportive family of outcasts from all over the world. They had come together to live in harmony without fear of persecution for being different. Everyone made sure everyone else was happy.

Several men and women at the front of the festival played instruments to create the most beautiful music. Then, a young woman clad in an airy blue gown motioned for the music to stop, and she called everyone to gather around. Can I have everyone’s attention? Gather around, please.

Chirayna does look beautiful in that dress. Kilgore let his usually stoic face form a smile.

You two have been spending a lot of time together. Bane ribbed him jovially. You think tonight is the night?

Perhaps. His attention remained with the girl.

As you all know, tonight is a special night. The goddess Ireya has bestowed upon us the knowledge and the love to embrace each other with open hearts and open minds. Chirayna folded her hands together and brought them to her chest. Tonight is the night she has deemed that the truest of loves are bonded together, not only in this life but into every life beyond. Tonight, Ireya’s Heart will bless the bonding of Chieftain Khamdar’s son, Banithel Entreri Korandrath, to Nekaia Ayva Mora.

Kilgore grimaced. Your middle name is Entreri?

Bane shot him a glance and put his finger over his lips. Hush.

Chirayna paused, glancing at Kilgore with stars in her eyes. Before the bonding, it’s time for the lady’s choice dance. She walked slowly, acknowledging all the people in the crowded semi-circle that had gathered around her. Ireya, our great goddess of love and compassion, tells us that for a bond to be true and be able to last through eternity, not only does a woman have to consent to this bond, but she must choose it. For women are granted greater courage of heart, and men are granted greater courage of mind upon birth. So, we take this night every year to celebrate courage of the heart and allow our great women to choose a union.

Every year the girls combed the beach looking for love, and every year Nekaia chose Bane. The two had been inseparable since Khamdar found her washed ashore after a ship sank off the coast fifteen years ago. The area was known for shipwrecks, as it was filled with hard-to-navigate reefs, but rarely did anything or anyone survive. After many years of courting, Nekaia asked Bane to become her bonded last year—he gladly accepted. On the day of the bonding, the two were