The Wicked Crown Trilogy

By K.N. Lee

THRONE OF DECEIT is fast-paced young adult fantasy filled with magic, betrayal, slow-burn romance, and a promises of an epic quest. Did I mention a sexy demigod? Mmm. Destan. ~ USA TODAY Bestselling Author Raye Wagner

The lord of the underworld wants one thing...

...the wizard king's daughter.

When danger calls, the gods of old unite to protect the innocent. Elise thought she was just another ordinary bastard daughter--even if her father was the powerful wizard king of the largest kingdom in all of Titania.

While she prepares for her winter ball, where she can position herself in an advantageous marriage and free herself from a life of exile, her father starts a war. His war against any mage who stands against him sends terror throughout the kingdom...but it is his deal with the Lord of the Dead that can destroy the entire realm.

Though Elise has never met her father, she's felt his cold glare and hatred far as long as she can remember. She's no one, powerless, and defenseless. But it turns out that was all a lie.

When her hidden power calls, and horrific creatures come to claim her, she can only rely on her mysterious grandmother, the awakening magic within...and the handsome warrior sent to spy on her. A harrowing quest for freedom, magic, and a sacred crown sends Elise down a treacherous journey of self discovery.

Embark on an epic, coming of age journey through the ancient world of Titania, where dragons roam, magic brews, and myths and legends prove true. Fans of The Borgias, House of the Dragon, Rings of Power, The Tudors, and Game of Thrones will fall in love with Elise and Destan as they discover more than the mysteries of the fallen gods and goddesses, but the true power of their love.

Get this romantic swords and sorcery saga!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dragon Roots Emporium
• Release date: Jun 23, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223461241

K.N. Lee

K.N. Lee is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She is the author of the Dragon-Born Saga, Eura Chronicles, Wonderland University, and the Chronicles of Koa series. When she is not writing twisted urban fantasy, epic tales of dragons, pirates, and mermaids, and dark poetry, she does a great deal of traveling and spending time with her family and Princess Polly, the pet pig. Wannabe rockstar, foreign language enthusiast, and anime geek, K.N. Lee also enjoys gaming and sketching. She is a winner of the Elevate Lifestyle Top 30 Under 30 "Future Leaders of Charlotte" award for her success as a writer, business owner, and for community service. She is signed with Dragon Roots Emporium and represented by Hershman Rights Management.

Book preview

Part I

Prologue

There was only darkness where he dwelled—darkness and the heavy groans of agony and despair.

To be Master of the Dead was a heavy title to hold, but Drefen wore it proudly, like a crown. It was his birthright, and he’d spent an eternity honoring it.

The world flourished and grew each century—but in the end—it always sent him fresh souls as a gift.

From his throne of stone and embers, he sat and watched as the air before him wavered and crackled.

Ocura Nevah walked into the cavern, strolling through the flickering image of the mortal world that played out before him.

Dressed in all black, her gown clung to every ivory curve of her feminine frame. Long red hair reached her waist, and midnight-blue eyes looked at him from under thick lashes.

She was his mistress of death, but had the power to walk in the land of the living, the dead, and the spirit realm.

Such a gift was unfair, but Drefen was a patient god—a vigilant one.

He’d planned his shift into the world of his children since the beginning of time. Mortals were all his. No matter what they did, the end was the same.

Master Drefen. Nevah stopped and held out her slender arms with a bow. I bring great tidings.

Lifting a brow, he watched her, waiting.

She cleared her throat, and tilted her head upward. Great progress has been made in Giran. I have summoned the great wizards of the realm. Many have answered my call, and have sworn their allegiance to your cause.

Ah, he said, rolling his eyes as he leaned back in his throne. I care nothing of wizards. They are of no use to me in life. But in death, perhaps we can work together.

She nodded. Of course, my lord. Her her voice lowered to a purr. But, you speak in haste. You didn’t let me finish.

With a grunt, he ushered her on, and took a sip from his emerald encrusted goblet. It was filled with blue flames—flames that satiated both his hunger and his thirst.

They are gathering mages from all over the realm, and in an act of sacrifice, they will offer their souls to you in exchange for dominion over the spirit world.

He sat upright and leaned forward, eyes narrowed. That changed things.

It can’t truly be that simple.

Just imagining the power that many wizards could give him made his mouth salivate. He could stand amongst the mortals within no time.

You underestimate me, my lord. A grin came to her lips, and she revealed pristine, white teeth. Our prime ally is King Caden, the greatest wizard the realm has seen in centuries. He offers the souls of hundreds of mages to bring you power.

And, what does he want in exchange for such gifts?

Immortality.

There was silence.

I see. Immortality was something he would never give willingly. Death fueled him, and to even lose out on one soul made his thick, white brow twitch.

Master? What say you? Will you accept King Caden’s bargain?

He looked to his left and saw only darkness. He looked to his right and saw light. In the light there was a shadowy figure, a constant reminder that he was a prisoner here just as much as the lost souls who called out to him for mercy.

I’ll give him what he wants.

Brilliant. I’ll return to the mortal world and set our plan in motion. With a flourish of her hands, she morphed and transformed into a black crow.

Drefen stood, and watched as she flew upward through the cavern, and vanished into the dark.

So, he said, talking to the shadowy figure who stepped backward and away. It truly begins.

1

The Messenger

The sound of hooves thundering down the main road rang in Elise’s ears just as she sipped mulled honey wine.

She jumped up from her spot on the ground, and her bonnet flew from her head. A summer breeze wafted through, sweeping ebony hair around her face as she peered downward.

Her heart leaped in her chest.

He’s here.

Sure enough, it was an armored messenger, astride a white horse, with a red banner in his hand.

Elise raced through the garden to the road at the outskirts of the grounds of Devynshire Castle.

Bright sunlight cascaded through the trees, highlighting every ebony wave as she bounded down the grassy, poppy-littered hill.

Elise, Dear. Lady Devyn shouted after her, shielding her eyes from her spot on the blanket sprawled across the grass. Where are you going?

The messenger! Elise shouted to her mother. He’s here.

As she glanced over her shoulder, she caught a glimpse of her mother’s smirk as she waved her on.

At eighteen, this would be her last year of seclusion from the world.

Today, she just wanted to be a young lady, fuss over what elaborate gown she would wear, and try her charms on handsome suitors from all over the realm.

Despite the fact that several eligible young men would be in attendance, her sights were set on only one—one very special prince.

Practically giddy, she grinned to herself. To think, she might have her choice of husband in just a few short days.

A giggle escaped her lips as she skidded to a stop, right before the messenger who leaped from his horse and gave her a bow with his head.

Elise curtsied. Good day, Harry.

Harry cleared his throat, and bowed. Good day to you, my lady.

Do you have something for me? Elise’s eyes peered at his brown satchel, hoping to catch a letter or parcel with the crest of the Kingdom of Arundell on it.

Hmmm. Harry rummaged through his bag. I don’t believe I saw anything for you today. He closed the satchel and shook his head. No. Nothing.

Shoulders slumping, Elise sucked her teeth. Nonsense. You wouldn’t be here without a message. She stepped from the plush grass to stand on the hard-packed dirt road that led through the forest and to town.

Aye, I have a message for Lady Seyena Devyn. But…I’m afraid I have none for the young lass.

It can’t be! Forgetting decorum, Elise stood right before Harry and dug her hands into the bag.

Instead of scolding her, he chuckled. All right! All right! No need to go into a frenzy, miss. He pulled out a cream-colored envelope with the Arundell seal of a golden lion.

Grinning, Elise waggled her finger at him. You scoundrel!

Elise took the envelope, and her grin widened. In her hands was perhaps the most important letter she’d received in her entire life. She traced the crest of Arundell, envisioning Prince Tolwin sealing it, and handing it off to the messenger.

Her mind made up tales of him kissing it before he sent it off, and her cheeks deepened in color.

That’s not all. Don’t forget the letter for your mum. Harry handed her another letter.

Her excitement nearly faded when she saw another seal—the seal of the Palace of Perth—her father’s seal.

With a nod, she fought the rise of dread. She wouldn’t let him ruin her excitement. Not today.

She turned to run back up the hill and toward the castle.

You’re welcome, Harry shouted after her with a laugh.

Looking over her shoulder, Elise shouted back. Oh, thank you, Harry! Have a safe journey! She gathered her skirts in her hand and quickened her speed as she raced up the plush grass in her slippers.

Smiling, her mother sat on her knees and ushered her back to their picnic.

What is it, dear?

Elise plopped back down onto their blanket and handed her mother the letters.

She picked up Princess Polly, her pet pig, and held her in her arms. She grabbed a handful of blueberries from a shallow bowl, and watched with anticipation as her mother opened the letters.

Her grandmother Inora emerged from the castle to join their picnic. She was merely sixteen years older than Elise’s mother, but held a distinctive air of nobility and wisdom in her perfect posture, serious facial expressions, and imposing energy.

Elise chewed a blueberry, and fed one to Princess Polly. Morning, Grandmama.

Good morning, Elise. Inora stopped before them— towering—with a skeptical gaze.

Inora clasped her hands in front of her simple gray gown. Her auburn hair was worn in a bun with a black veil secured to it. Her eyes were brown with flecks of hazel, like Elise and Seyena’s, but held a quiet wisdom that Elise often found herself studying from afar.

What is all of the fuss about? Another cut in the household budget?

No, Grandmama! Just the best news ever. We’ve got a letter from Arundell. Elise nodded to her mother who held the seal up for Inora to see.

Prince Tolwin has confirmed that he will be in attendance for Elise’s ball. Her mother gave Elise a wink.

Inora eyed the letter and nodded, though her mouth remained in a single line. Is this what you truly want? A match with Prince Tolwin?

What kind of question is that? Elise asked. Of course, I do. He’d be a perfect match. Not only is he the crown prince of an empire, but he is closer to my age than most of the suitors I would consider.

She is the king’s only daughter. Seyena lowered the letter. It could unite the kingdoms.

Inora snorted, and lowered herself to sit with them. That would be true if King Caden were a rational man, Seyena. Alas, he is not, and chances are that he will keep Elise imprisoned in this place until her death—just in spite of her being born.

Shoulders slumping, Elise and her mother shared a look of worry. Why he hated her so much was a mystery, but she never allowed herself the delusion of believing there was hope he might one day love her.

She’d only ever heard stories of her father. How when he came to see her as a baby, he didn’t hug, kiss, or hold her. It was said that he took one look at Elise, ran his hand down her face, and recoiled back as if she was a monster. Perhaps that was why he kept her prisoner in her home.

Let’s pray that isn’t true, Seyena said.

Didn’t Prince Tolwin just run off to fight in the Tidelands? Inora asked.

What does that matter? It is the duty of a prince to act in service for his kingdom, Elise pointed out as she kissed Princess Polly’s snout. She fed the pig a strawberry, and then popped one into her own mouth.

It is also the duty of a prince to marry whomever his father chooses. Do you think King Conroy would choose a bastard for his son?

That stung. All traces of a smile faded from Elise’s face. She stood and frowned down at her grandmother.

Thank you, Grandmama she said, taking back the letter. Tears stung her eyes. It’s nice to be reminded of who I am; a bastard—someone not worth loving.

She turned to head toward the forest where her favorite place of solitude awaited. The Crystal River ran through the Hempstead countryside of Devynshire, and all the way to Perth. It was the only place she felt safe, or at home, despite the stone walls that made up the castle she had been forced to live in since she was born.

Elise, Inora called after her. "That is not what I am reminding you of, dear. It couldn’t be further from the truth. You are loved, and you are more than a bastard. More than anything you have ever dreamed. When you see that, you will know the truth of your fate."

Ignoring her, Elise trudged away from the castle. She wandered to the grove where the falls frothed, pooled, and glistened beneath what trails of sunlight shone through the ancient trees.

Didn’t Inora understand that marriage was the only way she’d be free to truly live? She had to know that Elise craved a life of her own.

Her father would never let her leave Devynshire Castle, unless it was by being bound to a man of great standing—one he could use as an ally.

Of course, that wasn’t all she wanted out of life. She wanted to see all of what Titania had to offer—to taste exotic foods, learn to dance the fairy waltz, and meet the other races of their world.

But, Tolwin was the best option—her only option. He hadn’t been promised to any of the other eligible princesses in the realm.

She was the natural choice.

Dark stones lined the river, and piled onto one another just before the white falls. She sat on the cool rocks with a sigh and kissed Princess Polly on the top of her fuzzy spotted, pink head. She brushed her hair back over her shoulder, and opened the letter.

Just the fact that the prince had agreed to come to her coming out ball was a sign that things might be changing.

Princess Polly snorted and Elise smiled down at her despite the tears the now wet her cheeks.

She brought the letter to her nose and sniffed the parchment, hoping for a brief whiff of his scent. There wasn’t any. His father had probably signed the letter.

Once she’d read it through, she placed it onto the water and watched it float down the river.

She rested her cheek on her bare knees and followed it as it curved and vanished around the bend.

The sound of the forest sang to her, and as she hugged Princess Polly close to her chest, she prayed for an escape from her life in exile.

2

The King’s Bastard

The warmth of summer and the crisp air of fall rolled away as winter arrived on Devynshire Castle.

Soon, Elise’s coming out ball would arrive, and all would change. She would no longer be looked at as a child—but a woman of promise—one that suitors would be eager to claim as their own.

Even though her ball was an important day, the winter solstice was almost of greater importance. Since she was a child, it brought excitement and promise to her world—a breaking of the monotony of her life of exile. King Caden had given his approval for her to venture away from Devynshire for that one occasion—and no other.

While Princess Polly napped on an embroidered rug at her feet, Elise scrutinized her reflection in the faded mirror set on an iron frame.

When will my bosom fill out?

What a silly question, My Lady.

Elise stared at the small mounds that made up her breasts, and frowned. Is it? Sometimes I look at the other girls in the castle, and wonder if I’m behind somehow. I fear I still have the body of a girl when I want to be a woman.

Mera grinned, and pulled her corset tighter. Nonsense, My Lady. Your bosom is just fine.

Elise frowned at her. "Just fine? Oh, that’s what I want the prince to think when he looks at me."

Women come in all shapes and sizes. I doubt any man would care what’s beneath your throat once they take one look at your beautiful face.

The frown lines in Elise’s face smoothed, but she needed to be more than average. She needed to be exceptional.

Being the bastard child to a king wasn’t the same as if she were a commoner. But, it was still a dark mark against her. She needed to be better in every other way. There were legitimate princesses out there who were all vying for Prince Tolwin’s hand in marriage.

The boned fabric constricted her ribs and stomach until it was as tiny as possible. While Elise held her breath, Mera fastened the tiny buttons and tied the strings at her back.

Besides, who needs a full bosom when they have a face as lovely as yours, My Lady? You’re like a dream. No man will dare take his eyes off of yours.

Her mouth twisted as she turned to the side and placed her hands on her hips. She longed for full breasts like her mother’s, and curvaceous hips. As it stood, she was all angles with a slim frame, and flat belly.

At least your bottom is ample. Mera gave her rear a slap.

Elise gasped and spun around on her. She was a pretty woman, with freckled olive-toned skin, and almond-shaped eyes the color of honey. She wore a black dress, with a white apron, and a bonnet.

Elise’s shock faded as she gazed upon her lady’s maid’s cheeky grin.

They both burst into laughter.

You’re wicked, she said, and giggled as Mera helped her put on her outer dress over her petticoats, and secured her sleeves.

Aye, my lady. That I am—wicked and a bit ridiculous at times.

You’re far from ridiculous. Elise held Mera’s hands within her own. You make me laugh, and I love you for it.

Aye, I am good at that. Mera beamed and titled her chin upward. That—and making sure you keep your head on straight. I know you’re nervous about the ball, and the solstice. But, you’ll do just fine at both. Just get out of your head and into your heart.

Mera placed her hands on Elise’s shoulders, and widened her eyes.

Don’t worry so much about your appearance. The right man will fall for your heart, and your kindness.

Elise sighed. She hoped Prince Tolwin was the right man, because if he didn’t, she’d have to turn her gaze to one of the noblemen who she knew nothing about. The only thing that would be worse than a life in exile in Devynshire Castle, would be to be wed to a man who would mistreat her.

She swallowed against a lump in her throat.

A man like her father.

Nodding, she exhaled. Thank you for saying so, Mera. I do hate that you can’t join us for the winter solstice. Imagine the mischief we’d get into if we were together in the city.

Mera paused and wrapped an arm around her. She’d been her maid since she had been a little girl, and though only seven years older, she was like a sister. Aye, but you will be with your mother, and she will care for you.

It was true, and excitement did keep her from feeling too guilty for going to the city without her best friend in the world.

You will just have to tell me all about your trip when you return.

She gave Mera a kiss on the cheek.

I will. I promise.

Maybe you’ll catch the eye of a handsome lord and you won’t even have to worry yourself about the ball, she said, placing her hands on her hips as she stood back and looked her over.

That will do me no good. It just isn’t the way things are done.

It’s how things are done where I come from, she said, with a smirk.

Ah, I would love to see Evyn’s Gate one day.

You will, young miss. I can see you strolling the city with your piglet in a basket and the wind in your hair.

Elise looked toward the open window, and closed her eyes as she felt for a breeze.

It didn’t come, but she became aware of the chill in the air.

That would be lovely, she said, softly.

I’ll fetch your gloves, and slippers. They’ve been drying by the fire.

Elise nodded, a bit embarrassed that she’d soiled them earlier that morning.

"And, when I return, maybe I’ll tell you what I heard in town this morning."

Elise glanced over her shoulder, her curiosity thoroughly sparked. Tell me now. I command it.

A laugh escaped Mera’s lips, and she shook her head. My thoughts and secrets are my own, My Lady. You can’t command them out of me.

Elise pouted.

With a wink, Mera backed out of the room carrying a wicker basket of scraps of fabric. Alas, I’ll give it up in exchange for your stories of the winter solstice festivities. So, don’t leave out any details.

Elise’s brows furrowed, but she gave a nod. You have my word.

A secret?

She couldn’t wait to learn whatever it was. Life in the castle could be boring, and on this night, she would finally be allowed to leave its stone walls to venture out into the land of freedom and activity.

With one last glance at herself in the mirror, she touched her face and looked into her own eyes.

For a moment, she hardly recognized herself.

Mera had braided her hair into a new style, and it gave her a regal flair she wasn’t used to seeing. Intertwined into her raven hair was a string of pearls. She ran her fingertip across the smooth surface and widened her eyes.

I can be pretty, it seems.

Most days, she was content with tangles and wild tresses as she trudged through the castle grounds in her boots and riding coat.

But that evening, she almost looked like a princess.

She frowned, and closed her eyes.

But, I’m not a princess.

I am a bastard.

Illegitimate.

She fought the bitterness that began to rise in her throat and left her room before she could face herself once again.

The corridor was empty, and as she walked toward her mother’s room, she heard the faint sound of sobs.

Her heart broke as she walked closer, and stood before her mother’s door.

She reached for the knob, and paused before touching it.

Instead of disturbing her, she stepped away, and covered her mouth. She stifled a cry of her own, deeply affected by the very sound or notion that her mother was unhappy.

Sadness was thick in the air, and it had been for as long as Elise could remember.

Her hands balled into fists as she stared at the closed door and listened to her mother weep.

She would rip that sadness away from her mother.

It was her mission.

3

A Dark Decree

E lise, dear. Wake up. We’ve arrived.

Already? Elise yawned, and opened her eyes.

They’d stopped, and the doors of the carriage were open.

She’d fallen asleep during the long ride through the countryside, and awakened to the roar of activity in the bustling city. She stretched, and rolled her neck.

A chill ran through her as they left the warmth of the carriage to stand on the stone streets of the central marketplace. Snow flurries flew in, and landed on her nose and lips.

She licked the cold crystals away, and smiled.

The crowds were thick, and vibrant with palpable excitement for what was the longest night of the year. She wished she’d been able to bring Princess Polly along. Her little pig did well being carried in a basket with a blanket, but animals weren’t allowed in the temples.

The central square was shaped like a diamond, with alleys and streets jutting out into different parts of the city. This was as close to the Temple of the Rising Sun that the carriage had any hopes of reaching. Hordes of people made the pilgrimage to the temple each winter solstice to ask for blessings, pay homage to their ancestors, or to connect with the gods.

Elise always looked forward to it, for it was the only time she was allowed to leave the castle grounds.

She breathed in the cool air and pulled her evergreen woolen cloak tightly across her shoulders. Many carried colored fans, or held candles in their hands as they poured into the streets from all directions.

Awe filled her as she gazed upon the tall buildings made of stone and the cobblestone streets that stretched from one end of the walled city, to the other.

The crackling of bonfires set in stone pyres rang throughout the city. People warmed themselves around the fires, smiling, and laughing as the guards patrolled on horses adorned with red and green cloaks draped over their backs.

To be around so many people should have left her wary, but such a congregation made her feel cozy. Excitement rushed through her veins, and her eyes wandered to those of handsome young men, and the pretty girls who were wearing their best gowns for the festivities.

The smell of fresh acorn muffins wafted through the air, and her stomach grumbled as she remembered just how hungry the journey had made her.

Tonight, they’d feast on muffins and spiced cider, soup made of winter fruit, cakes, and roasted pig. She couldn’t wait for all of the festivities. Often, she was meant to be content within Devynshire Castle. But, that left her envious of the lords and ladies who had freedom to travel and explore at a whim.

Mother reached for her gloved hand. Keep close. You don’t want to get lost in the crowd. It would be nearly impossible to find you.

Elise nodded, and walked by her side. A swarm of hundreds—if not thousands—of people moved in as they stepped through the wide main thoroughfare. Throughout her entire life, she and her mother and grandmother had been afforded servants, but guards were scarce, and she never had seen the need for them.

However, as she and her mother walked amongst the common-folk, she couldn’t help but notice an increased number of stares and whispers.

Each direction she turned, she met the critical gaze of another, and as she searched the crowds, she was certain they were looking at her and her mother. Looks of joy turned fowl as they walked by.

Something doesn’t feel right, she whispered to her mother.

Seyena gave her a sidelong glance. Ignore them.

Why? Elise lifted a brow. She didn’t like her mother’s tone—it was knowing, and held a warning. You know something, don’t you?

Sighing, Seyena looked ahead. She averted Elise’s gaze, and spoke in a matter-of-fact tone. The king has made a new decree.

Her stomach churned. Whatever it was, it had to be something dreadful. Nonetheless, she risked the next question.

What was the decree?

Before replying, Seyena stopped and turned to her. The bright moon shone onto them, as did the dim torchlights that lined the alleyways. Her brows furrowed as she took Elise by the shoulders, and sighed.

They shared the same brown eyes, but there was something more in her mother’s on that evening.

You know how those born with magic are to be sent to The Vale for training under the tutelage of the elves?

Elise nodded. Everyone knew about that.

Well, she continued, lowering her voice. "Your father has decided to cease all contact with The Vale. He has made a decree to instead send those with magic to special temples he has built in remote areas of Giran."

Frowning, Elise looked around them. People were certainly staring, and their whispers reached her ears. Why would he do that? I thought the masters at The Vale were the best teachers of magic.

Seyena tilted her head. "Think about it, Dear. Your father is a wizard, and he is king—the first to rule with magic since the First Age. Now, knowing your father’s pride and hubris, what would you do if you didn’t want any competition?"

Elise knew where her mother was going with that question. She now understood why those people looked at them with disdain. Her stomach churned, and she suddenly felt sick.

The king was going to either use those with magic, or kill them.

I would encourage magic to grow in our world, she answered. I’d send them to The Vale as part of tradition.

That brought a smile to Seyena’s face, though it was a sad one.

"Of course, you would, Elise. But, you are not your father, and he is not a man of kindness, love, or mercy. He is a man of conceit, and vanity, and he will do everything within his power to prevent anyone from standing against him."

Elise nodded. I understand, Mother.

Seyena stroked her cheek. I am glad you do. I ask you to never forget what I’ve told you about your father. I may be his favorite mistress, and he is my master, but I would give anything to be free of him.

An ache entered Elise’s already anxious stomach. Now, sadness cloaked her.

Seyena took her by the gloved hand. Come, let’s go to the Citadel.

As she walked at her mother’s side, she pitied those who were born with magic. She had never thought she’d fear for them, for magic was a divine gift.

Now, it was a curse.

How frightening it must be to have your hopes of venturing to the Vale dashed, only to learn you’d be sent to one of King Caden’s temples. She feared their fate was one of hardship—if not death.