Throne of Shadows: The False King, Book 3: Loth The Unworthy

By Charles Eugene Anderson

When a tyrannical sorceress-queen exiles a heroic barbarian warrior, he vows to return and free his land from her dark magic and iron rule. Aided by a band of loyal allies, he quests to find an ancient artifact with the power to defeat her, but must also unravel a deeper conspiracy threatening to plunge the kingdom into ruin. 

Filled with action, intrigue, and larger-than-life heroes, this gripping fantasy tale evokes the spirit of classic sword-and-sorcery epics like Conan the Barbarian and the works of Robert E. Howard. Follow one barbarian's quest for justice in an unforgiving world of monsters, magic, and grand adventure. A must-read for fans of muscular fantasy writing and antiheroic heroes!

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mad Cow Press
• Release date: Sep 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223233008

Charles Eugene Anderson

Charles Eugene Anderson lives in Colorado. Chuck is a former teacher. He now spends his time writing, hanging out with his pup, Champ, and learning how to bake. More about Chuck at http://charleseugeneanderson.com

Book preview

Chapter

One

Azax, Shimoda, and Loth fled through the chaotic streets, Valeria's castle fading into the distance behind them. Xander's sudden betrayal still rang in their minds, his sword piercing Valeria's heart, a permanent scar on their weary souls.

As they wove through shadowy alleys, the city was in upheaval. Cries of panic and confusion echoed as word of Valeria's demise rippled through the capital. They needed refuge, a place to regain their strength and unravel the tangled threads of Xander's conspiracy.

Slipping through a nondescript door, they found themselves in a dimly lit room lined with leather-bound books. Candles flickered, casting dancing shadows over the weathered pages. An elderly man rose from a cluttered desk, alarm crossing his wrinkled face.

Quickly, inside! he urged, shuffling over to bar the door behind them. You shouldn't be out there right now.

Shimoda's hand went to his sword hilt. Who are you, old man? Why do you let us into your home?

The man raised a hand in reassurance. Peace, friends. I am Virtue Perne, a scholar of little renown. But I mean you no harm.

Loth stepped forward, gratitude mixed with wariness in his eyes. Your help is appreciated. But the streets are dangerous for anyone associated with us now.

Virtue waved a hand dismissively. Pah, I care not for the gossip traded outside my door. But you three clearly have an urgent matter at hand. Rest here awhile.

The companions exchanged uneasy looks but took Virtue up on his unexpected hospitality. As he fetched bread and drink, Azax's eyes roamed over the scholar's collection of books.

Quite a treasury of knowledge you have here, the mage remarked.

Virtue smiled as he returned. Indeed, I have plumbed many dusty archive in my time, searching for fragments of history and tales forgotten.

As they ate, the scholar studied them with probing eyes. Unless I miss my guess, you three were involved in the tragic affair at the royal castle, were you not?

They shifted uneasily, but Loth nodded. Though not how it will be told on the streets by morning, I'd wager.

Virtue leaned forward, steepling his fingers. Then speak the truth of it if you wish. These old ears will not betray your words.

Haltingly, they related the events leading up to their confrontation with Valeria and how Xander was ultimately revealed as a turncoat who murdered the queen and seized power.

The scholar sat in solemn silence as their tale unfolded. Finally, he shook his head sadly. A great injustice has occurred today. But take heart - Xander's treachery will not go unanswered.

Loth furrowed his brow. What do you mean?

Queen Valeria has a sister - Princess Katria, currently away at court in the southern lands. If you can reach her with word of what has happened, she will see through Xander's lies and expose his villainy.

Hope flickered in Azax's eyes. Of course...with Princess Katria's aid, we can reveal Xander's true nature. She has a rightful claim to Valeria's throne.

Virtue nodded. Indeed. But your path will not be easy. Xander will do all his power to discredit you and ensure that his version of events spreads.

Shimoda gripped his bow tightly, determination etched