Forged in Forbidden Flames

By Evelyn M. Harrow

"Forged in Forbidden Flames" unfurls the tale of Kiera, a young blacksmith's apprentice in the mystical land of Eldoria, where fire not only forges steel but also awakens ancient magic long forbidden. When Kiera discovers a hidden tome beneath her master's forge, revealing the secrets of imbuing weapons with arcane powers, she's drawn into the clandestine world of sorcery and ancient crafts. Despite the kingdom's strict ban on the old ways—punishable by exile or worse—Kiera's curiosity ignites a flame within her that cannot be quenched.

Risking everything, Kiera begins experimenting, blending her newfound magical knowledge with her blacksmithing skills to create a weapon of untold power. However, her activities soon attract the attention of the Royal Inquisitors, a fearsome order dedicated to eradicating magic and its practitioners. On the run and with nowhere to turn, Kiera finds an unlikely ally in Rowan, a mysterious wanderer with secrets of his own and a connection to the magical world that Kiera is desperate to understand.

Together, they embark on a perilous journey to the heart of Eldoria, seeking the lost city of the sorcerers, believed to be a myth. As they delve deeper into the forbidden arts, they uncover a shadowy plot that threatens to unravel the very fabric of their world. With the fate of Eldoria hanging in the balance, Kiera and Rowan must master the forbidden flames that have bound their destinies together, forging a weapon that could either save their world or doom it to eternal darkness.

"Forged in Forbidden Flames" is a story of courage, forbidden love, and the quest for knowledge at the edge of the world's end, where every secret uncovered could be as dangerous as it is powerful.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Arcane Atlas Books
• Release date: Apr 7, 2024
• ISBN: 9798223168027

Book preview

Forged in Forbidden Flames

A Tale of Love, Loyalty, and the Unbreakable Bond Between Two Hearts

Evelyn M. Harrow

Copyright © [Year of First Publication] by [Author or Pen Name]

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Contents

1.Sparks Ignite

2.The Forbidden Bond

3.Whispers in the Shadows

4.The Enchanted Necklace

5.A Plague Upon the Dwarves

6.Secrets of the Past

7.The Ironforge Scheme

8.The Curse Unleashed

9.A Cure in the Depths

10.Unlikely Alliances

11.The Sorcerer's Legacy

12.Forged in Love

Chapter one

Sparks Ignite

The rising sun cast a warm glow over the bustling city of iron hold, its rays illuminating the intricate stonework of the buildings and the vibrant tapestries hanging from windows. The streets hummed with activity as merchants set up their stalls, their voices mingling with the clanging of the blacksmiths’ hammers and the soft murmur of the waking city.

Amidst the morning bustle, Ezra Blackthorn strode purposefully towards his forge, his mind preoccupied with the day’s tasks. As a skilled blacksmith, Ezra took great pride in his work, pouring his heart and soul into every piece he crafted. But despite his dedication to his trade, Ezra couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing from his life.

As he approached the forge, Ezra was surprised to find a cloaked figure waiting by the entrance. The figure turned, revealing the face of a beautiful dwarven woman with golden hair and honey-brown eyes. Ezra’s heart skipped a beat as he recognized Naia Stoneheart, the daughter of the renowned Stoneheart clan.

Ezra Blackthorn? Naia asked, her voice soft yet confident.

Yes, that’s me, Ezra replied, his curiosity piqued. How may I assist you?

Naia lowered her hood, her eyes sparkling with determination. I’ve come to seek your help with a project of great importance. I am Naia Stoneheart, of the Stoneheart clan.

Ezra’s eyes widened in recognition. The Stoneheart clan was known throughout the land for their exquisite jewelry and their mastery of dwarven craftsmanship. It’s an honor to meet you, Naia. Please, come inside, and we can discuss your project further.

As they entered the forge, Ezra couldn’t help but admire the way Naia carried herself, with a grace and poise that spoke of her noble upbringing. But there was something else in her demeanor, a fire and determination that intrigued him.

So, what brings you to my forge? Ezra asked, leading Naia to his workbench.

Naia reached into her satchel and pulled out a silver necklace, its pendant cracked and dull. This necklace has been in my family for generations, she explained, her voice tinged with sadness. It was damaged during the last Festival of Flames, and I was hoping you could help me repair it.

Ezra carefully took the necklace, examining the pendant closely. The craftsmanship was exquisite, the intricate filigree work speaking of the skill and dedication of the dwarven artisans. But as he looked closer, Ezra noticed something peculiar about the pendant’s design.

These markings,’ he murmured, tracing the delicate engravings with his fingertips. I’ve never seen anything like them before."

Naia leaned in closer, her brow furrowed with curiosity. What do you mean?

The symbols on this pendant, they’re not like any dwarven runes I’ve encountered, Ezra explained, his mind racing with possibilities. They almost look like a combination of dwarven and human script.

Naia’s eyes widened with surprise. A combination of our two languages? But how is that possible?

Ezra shook his head, his excitement growing. I don’t know, but it’s fascinating. It’s as if this pendant was created to symbolize unity between our two peoples.

Naia’s face lit up with a smile, her eyes shining with hope. Unity between humans and dwarves? That’s a beautiful idea, Ezra. If only it were that simple.

Ezra’s heart ached at the wistfulness in Naia’s voice. He knew all too well the centuries of mistrust and prejudice that divided their two races. But looking at Naia, he couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of hope that things could be different.

Maybe it’s not simple, Ezra said softly, meeting Naia’s gaze. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. If we work together, perhaps we can find a way to bridge the gap between our peoples.

Naia’s smile widened, her hand coming to rest on Ezra’s arm. I like the way you think, Ezra Blackthorn. And I would be honored to work with you on this project.

As they began to discuss the details of the necklace’s repair, Ezra found himself drawn to Naia’s passion and intelligence. She spoke of her own work as a jewel crafter, of the hours she spent honing her craft and the joy she found in creating something beautiful.

But as they talked, Ezra sensed a sadness in Naia’s voice, a weight that seemed to bear down on her. Naia, he said gently, forgive me if I’m overstepping, but is everything alright? You seem troubled.

Naia sighed, her shoulders sagging. It’s my father, she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. He’s a good man, but he’s so set in his ways. He believes that dwarves should stick to their own kind, that any association with humans can only lead to trouble.

Ezra’s heart clenched with sympathy. He knew all too well the pressure of familial expectations and the pain of feeling trapped by tradition. I’m sorry, Naia, he said softly. That must be difficult for you.

Naia nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. I love my father, and I respect our traditions. But I can’t help but feel that there’s so much more to life than what we’ve been taught. I want to see the world, to learn from other cultures and ways of thinking. But I fear my father will never understand.

Ezra reached out, taking Naia’s hand in his own. Naia, I know we’ve only just met, but I want you to know that you’re not alone. I may be human, but I understand the weight of expectations and the fear of disappointing those we love. But I also know that sometimes, we have to follow our hearts, even if it means taking a risk.

Naia looked up at Ezra, her eyes wide with surprise and gratitude. Thank you, Ezra, she whispered, her hand tightening around his. Your words mean more to me than you know.

As they stood there, hand in hand, Ezra felt a spark of connection, a sense that he had found a kindred spirit in Naia. But before he could say anything more, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed from outside the forge.

Ezra frowned, releasing Naia’s hand and moving towards the entrance. Wait here, he said, his voice low and cautious.

As he stepped outside, Ezra was greeted by the sight of a group of dwarven warriors, their faces grim and their eyes hard. At their head stood a stout, muscular dwarf with a thick, graying beard and piercing blue eyes.

Thorin Stoneheart, Ezra said, his voice steady despite the sudden tension in the air. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?

Thorin’s eyes narrowed, his gaze flicking past Ezra to the forge beyond. I’ve come for my daughter, Naia. I was told she was seen entering your forge.

Ezra’s heart raced, his mind scrambling for a way to defuse the situation. He knew that Thorin’s disapproval could spell disaster for Naia and for any hope of unity between their peoples.

Before he could respond, Naia emerged from the forge, her head held high and her eyes blazing with determination. Father, she said, her voice clear and strong, I came here of my own free will, to seek Ezra’s help with a project of great importance.

Thorin’s face darkened, his eyes flashing with anger. You would consort with a human, Naia? Have you forgotten your duty to your clan, to your people?

Naia stood her ground, unflinching in the face of her father’s fury.