The Marked Princess: The Shendri Series, #1

By E.P. STAVS

With her eighteenth birthday fast approaching, crown princess Josselyn deLure knows it's her duty to choose a husband, but that doesn't mean she has to be happy about it. She'd much rather be practicing her swordplay with her best friend, Edmund, or teasing her straight-laced guard, Alex. Marriage isn't high on her list of priorities.

But when a plot to overthrow the kingdom sends her fleeing for her life, marriage will be the least of her worries as the ancient, celestial magic dwelling beneath her marked skin emerges in the most startling of ways. Will she be strong enough to face the darkness inside and save her kingdom? Or will she crumple under the weight of self-doubt?

Celestial beasts, swoony dances, and a fierce-as-hell warrior princess all mark the exciting first installment of E.P. Stavs's The Shendri Series.


Perfect for fans of Melanie Cellier.


"This was my first book by E.P. Stavs, and I loved every second of this engaging novel! With vivid descriptions of both magical elements and medieval settings, the author sweeps readers into a fantastical journey." ~ USA Today Best-Selling Author K.L. Bone

"An uplifting power-of-the-female crux, this story had me on the edge. I read it in two nights! I can't wait for the next book in the series... this book makes me want to kick ass and fall in love. All at once." - Amazon Reviewer

"Stavs delivers a unique and incredible story of a young woman's journey to save herself, the people she loves, and her kingdom." - Amazon Reviewer

• Language: English
• Publisher: E.P. STAVS
• Release date: Apr 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9798986286365

Book preview

Chapter One

Her royal highness, Josselyn deLure, crown princess and future queen of all Eldour, was up a tree. A rather splendid cherry tree, with long, strong branches that were just right for lounging on. A gentle breeze played with the strands of thick, chestnut hair that had long since escaped the confines of their coiffure.

Did you see that? That one must have gone forty feet, at least. Perched beside her was her childhood friend and partner-in-crime, Edmund Brandt. Or, more formally, Sir Edmund of Bridgewater, as he had recently been knighted. Josselyn preferred a rather less formal Sir Eddie of the Bog Water, in remembrance of the time he'd fallen into a bog while showing off how well he could walk backwards on his hands. They were currently in the middle of a competition to see who could spit their cherry pit the farthest.

Josselyn puckered her lips and shot her pit with gusto. Ha! Right into the rosebushes. I win! She grinned at Edmund in triumph, and he huffed, running a hand through his artfully disheveled brown hair.

And just how am I supposed to concentrate on distance, when you have cherry juice running all down your face? Have some dignity, I beg of you. Royalty, indeed.

Josselyn wiped her mouth with the sleeve of her tunic, then stuck out her tongue and crossed her eyes at him. How's this? Better?

Edmund chuckled. Much.

The sound of approaching footsteps interrupted their banter. Alex Grey, Josselyn's personal guard, stood at the bottom of the tree and looked up at the two of them with his usual, serious expression. Tall and lean, with a quiet air that belied the strength of the man beneath the uniform, he would have been considered handsome if it weren't for the ragged, four inch scar that marred the right side of his face. Your presence is required at the castle, Your Highness. The envoy from Antos has arrived, and Lady Merridale wishes to see you before you meet with them.

Josselyn snorted. See me, indeed. More like dress me up like a prized peacock. She looked over at Edmund, who was grinning at her without sympathy and narrowed her eyes. And what about you? Don't you have some sort of noble deed you should be attending to, Sir Edmund?

He laughed. Nah, I'm good.

I have to agree with Her Highness, Alex said. I'm sure your presence would be better served elsewhere. His eyes narrowed. Anywhere else, really.

Edmund's laughter turned into a sneer. And leave Joss's safety in the hands of some Kalo orphan who can barely keep track of her? Her father may be blind to your ineptitude, but I've known Joss since she was running around in nappies. She needs someone more dependable than you by her side.

Alex's jaw clenched, and he looked as though he might knock Edmund right out of the tree, when Josselyn turned to Edmund and punched him in the arm. Don't be an ass. Alex is the finest guard in the kingdom. He gives me space because he understands me, but he always knows where I am. Isn't that right, Alex?

As you say, Your Highness.

Up in the tree, Edmund grumbled, rubbing his arm, but his expression soon lightened as he reached over to give a strand of Josselyn's hair a gentle tug. I get it. Alex is the epitome of dependability. I believe I shall commission a statue to be made in his honor, to watch over these gardens for centuries to come.

You know, that may be just what this garden needs. Where would you place it? Beside the roses, perhaps?

I was thinking more along the lines of a nice patch of skunk cabbage.

Alex cleared his throat. Lady Merridale seemed quite insistent that you come straight away, Your Highness.

Josselyn sighed. Guess I'd better get going. She looked over at Edmund. Sparring tomorrow?

I can if we meet early enough. Contrary to some people's opinions, I do actually keep fairly busy around here. With that, he swung down off the branch and lifted his arms up toward Josselyn with a cheeky grin. Milady.

Josselyn rolled her eyes, hooking her legs over the branch and swinging so that she hung upside down like a bat. Her green eyes sparkled with mischief as she looked at the two men standing in front of her. And just whom is this lady of which you speak? Surely, you aren't referring to me. Grabbing the branch with her hands, she swung down to the ground, landing with catlike grace. I'm not a lady, I am the future queen of Eldour, and I most certainly do not need a man to help me do something I am perfectly capable of doing myself. She squared her shoulders as she looked up at Alex. Take me to my aunt, then. I shall face my fate without fear.

Edmund's laughter rang out behind them as they walked through the gardens toward the castle. It's just a bath and a nice dress, Joss, he called after her. I'm sure you'll survive.

Oh, not that one, Aunt Merri, I'm begging you. Josselyn grimaced at the elaborate, blue gown Lady Merridale held out. It's so tight and stuffy, I can hardly breathe with it on.

Lady Merridale harrumphed and continued to hold out the offending gown. It is both regal and elegant, two attributes that you are quite lacking at the moment. Must I remind you of the importance of this meeting? Prince Stefan, who is second in line to the Antoski crown, has come to negotiate a treaty with us. We must put our best foot forward. Surely you wish for peace along the border?

Josselyn gave her aunt an indignant look. I hardly see how my discomfort will benefit anyone. The green gown with the gold sash is just as elegant as this monstrosity, and it's far more comfortable to wear.

You must be joking, my dear, Lady Merridale gasped. It's sleeveless. Your arms would be bare!

So? It's summer, everyone is wearing short sleeves. It's perfectly respectable.

Not everyone has the mark of a beast on them, do they? She looked pointedly at Josselyn's right arm, where four black claw marks stood out against her tanned skin.

Josselyn traced the marks with her finger. It's just a birthmark. Lots of people have them. Besides, Mother always said it made me special. She called me her little wildcat.

Lady Merridale sighed and laid the blue gown out on the bed. My sister was blinded by a mother's love. Others, I'm afraid, will not see it in the same light. Therefore, you will cover your arms, mind your manners, and sit quietly as your father leads us into a more peaceful era. She turned to the corner of the room where Josselyn's maid was standing, wringing her hands and watching the two women with rounded eyes. I'll leave this hoyden to you. See if you can't manage to do something with that mane she calls hair. Turning back to the princess, she leveled her with her sternest look. Your guard will collect you when it's time to join the meeting. Be sure you're ready by then.

His name is Alex, Aunt Merri, and you've known him since he was two.

Don't remind me. I have no idea what your parents were thinking, taking that boy in. They should have had him dumped off with the first group of Kalo vagrants that passed by, instead of bringing him here.

His entire caravan was massacred by Antoski soldiers! He was the only survivor, practically a baby, when my parents took him in. You wouldn't begrudge a child like that the warmth and security of a home, would you?

Of course not. I just don't see why his home had to be in the royal castle.

It's not like he was in the nursery with me.

Really, Josselyn, I do not wish to discuss your guard with you, the duchess retorted. Now, for once in your life, be a dutiful niece and make yourself presentable, she added, sweeping out of the room in a flurry of skirts.

Josselyn sighed, giving her maid a look. Royalty, am I right?

The girl smothered a laugh. Shall I help you into your dress now, Your Highness? she asked, reaching for the gown Lady Merridale had laid out.

Why, yes, Jane, you may. Josselyn grinned. The green one hanging in the wardrobe there should do quite nicely, don't you think? She fell back onto the bed and raised her marked arm above her head. Don't worry Mama, no one is going to keep this wildcat in a cage.

Chapter Two

An hour later, Josselyn found herself standing in front of the large, wooden doors leading to the royal meeting room. Her hair was artfully piled on top of her head, with a simple gold tiara resting above her forehead. Her deep green, silk gown draped elegantly over her lean figure.

Your Highness. Alex stepped forward, pulling the doors open and bowing Josselyn into the room. She glided past him, head high and shoulders straightened. He followed behind her, taking up his position by the door. Josselyn crossed the large room, which was lined on the left with several windows that stretched from floor to ceiling, allowing sunlight to flood the room. The other walls were covered in tapestries, depicting Eldour's long and rich history. As she approached the meeting table, one of the tapestries caught her eye. It portrayed a battlefield, crowded with men fighting and those already fallen. In the middle of the chaos was a single female archer riding astride an impossibly large wolf. Something about the woman called to her, as if she were looking at a kindred spirit. Perhaps it was simply because she was a woman unafraid to be a leader amid a sea of men.

Ah, Princess Josselyn, thank you for joining us. Please, have a seat. Lord Burgundy's nasal voice interrupted her musings, and she tore her eyes away from the wall to join the people already seated at the table.

Your Majesty. She bowed toward her father, King Frederic deLure of Eldour, who sat at the table's head. Lord Burgundy, his chief adviser, and General Weston, the head of his army, sat across from her, to the king's left. She greeted them both in turn before addressing the sour-faced woman to her right. Lady Merridale, good afternoon.

Good afternoon, Your Highness, the duchess bit out, eyes narrowing on Josseyn's bare arms.

King Frederic gave Josselyn's hand an affectionate pat. You look well, today, daughter. Green suits you. A tender light lit his eyes as he added, It was your mother's favorite, you know.

Josselyn's chest warmed with pleasure. Thank you, Your Grace.

Lady Merridale pursed her lips, looking toward the closed door. It seems we're only missing our visitors from Antos. She sniffed. I do hope they aren't planning to keep us waiting for long. It would be inexcusably rude to Your Majesty.

King Frederic gave her a patient look. I'm sure the prince will be along shortly. He was quite eager to meet with us when he arrived.

Lord Burgundy made a noise of agreement. Indeed, Sire. I've heard great things about this young prince. He seems to be quite the promising ally. He glanced at Josselyn. Very promising.

Josselyn raised an eyebrow at the adviser but was prevented from questioning him by the sudden opening of the doors. A young man strode into the room, going straight to the chair on the opposite end of the table before presenting them with a smooth bow. He wore a black doublet with silver embroidery, along with black breeches and polished black boots. His golden hair was short and meticulously combed. Your Majesty, I appreciate you arranging this meeting. I'm sure you'll agree that it's long overdue. He grinned, his face the picture of confidence.

King Frederic watched the young prince, his expression guarded. Indeed it is. He gestured toward the table. Please, join us, so that we may begin.

General Weston looked back at the door. Is it only you coming, Your Highness? Did you not bring any of your advisers with you for this meeting? You arrived with such a large party of men earlier...

The prince leaned back in his chair with a shrug. As you see. He looked at Josselyn and winked. Why fill the room with noisy men who are all simply going to agree with everything I say? I find this way to be far more efficient. So let's get right to point, shall we? We're here to discuss a way in which we can settle our differences so that both kingdoms are satisfied. He paused, giving Josselyn an appreciative glance. And I believe you'll find my proposal as pleasing as I do. His eyes drifted over Josselyn's face, then dipped lower. As his gaze came back up to meet her eyes, he grinned. Most pleasing, indeed.

Josselyn kept her expression stoic, while a cold shiver made its way up her spine. Oh? And just what is this pleasing proposal you have for us, Your Highness? We're all ears, I assure you.

A hard glimmer flickered briefly over the prince's eyes, and he clapped his hands together. Just so, Princess, just so. He turned to the King. What I propose, Your Majesty, is a marriage alliance between your daughter and myself. With such an alliance, Antos would have free access to use your water ports for trade and Eldour would have the protection provided by our very extensive and well trained army. He looked around the table. I'm sure you can all see the wisdom in such a plan.

Shaking her head, Josselyn muttered under her breath, You have got to be kidding me. She glanced at her father, who was watching the prince with a speculative look, before turning to address the prince. With respect, Your Highness, I'm afraid marriage is not on the table. I am the only heir to my father's crown, and, as such, it is only fitting that I marry an Eldourian. One worthy of being Eldour's next king.

The prince appeared undeterred by her rejection, keeping his sole focus of King Frederic. What say you, Your Majesty? May I have your daughter's hand in marriage? It would be a glorious alliance, I assure you. A much deserved peace between our kingdoms.

It took all of Josselyn's self control to keep her temper in check. Visions of leaping onto the table, charging the prince, and shoving her foot into his face danced through her mind. How dare he go over her head, when she'd already given him a clear answer? It was easy to forget, when one lived in as progressive a kingdom as Eldour, that women in other lands were treated like children who didn't know what was best for themselves. To allow a man like this to become the next King of Eldour would be an atrocity. He'd set them back a hundred years!

Her father, it would seem, was of the same opinion. The future queen of Eldour has already given you an answer. I would not force her hand in such a thing, nor do I think such a marriage would be appropriate. To have an Antoski prince become our next ruler... He shook his head. We would be handing our kingdom over on a silver platter. Antos would absorb our small kingdom, and where would that leave our people? No, it will not be done. I'm certain we can come to simpler terms than that.

Prince Stefan sighed, shaking his head in dismay. Alas, I have discussed the matter with my father at great length, and I'm afraid this is all he gave me leave to offer. He leaned back in his chair, rubbing his chin. But perhaps... perhaps I could stay for a while and talk things over with my advisers. We came here to find peace, and I'm not one to give up so easily. His eyes met Josselyn's at this last part, and she cringed.

It's for the good of the kingdom, Joss. You'll just have to put up with this arrogant prig for a bit longer than you thought, that's all. She forced the corners of her mouth up into a smile. Thank you, Your Highness. That is most reasonable of you.

Indeed, we would be delighted to have you prolong your stay with us, Lady Merridale chimed in. As you may know, Princess Josselyn's eighteenth birthday is next week, and we're planning to hold a coming of age ball for her that evening. You must stay for it, your fellow noblemen, too, of course.

I would be honored, my lady. The prince flashed a charming smile in her direction before turning once again to Josselyn. And it would be an even greater honor if you would allow me to claim the first two dances, Princess.

Josselyn's stomach sank. She glanced at her father out of the corner of her eye, and he gave her an almost imperceptible nod. The things we do in the name of peace. Of course, Your Highness, that would be... delightful.

Excellent. His eyes darkened. I'll be looking forward to it.

Chapter Three

A nd then the bastard turns around and asks my father! As if I'd never even said anything! Josselyn parried Edmund's practice sword with her own, lunging forward and thrusting it into the center of his chest. "Geez, Edmund, I hope you fight better than this against the other knights.