Aenya's destiny could cost her freedom.
After years of compulsory training to become an elite warrior, sixteen-year-old Aenya plans to run away with her friend Lewin. However, her plans crumble when she is chosen to be Elriyon’s new figurehead and wife to the future ruler, Rieve.
But Aenya has a secret: she is a Darcara—one chosen by elusive dragon-like beings, the Dargun, to receive the wisdom that once governed her people.
When the current rulers decide to stop a growing rebellion by killing the remaining Dargun, Aenya flees to Elriyon’s mysterious interior. Still, the Dargun’s words burn into her mind. They have a new task for her: return to her people and speak the truth, no matter the cost.
With escape close at hand, Aenya must choose between a dangerous calling or finally being free.
Still, I sigh, “Mami, you’re wrong. They’re wrong. This is all wrong. I can’t be a part of it.”
“You already are, Sweet. You are part of Elriyon. The true Elriyon. Don’t trust yourself. Trust the—the part of you that is greater than all of this.”
I can gather her meaning from the fear in her voice. Even now she won’t say the word “Dargun” in the house.
“Maybe I don’t want to be greater. Mami, I feel like a falcon on a tether.”
Her face falls, but her voice stays resolute. “I know you will choose well.”
“Choose what?” I don’t mean to shout.
She winces. “The choice,” she says, determined. “To grasp what you have been offered. Lewin told you to make them see you for what you are. He’s right.”
I hear footsteps approaching and speak lower. “This has never been a choice.”
“It is now.” Her eyes are steady, intense, but they’re directed at the floor, not at me. “You have been chosen for something, Aenya, many things. So much has fallen on you, but you do have the choice to take it on or to walk away. Like I did.”
Excerpted from Heir of Elriyon by K. Michele Moseley, Copyright © 2021 by K. Michele Moseley. Published by Uncommon Universes Press.
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Paperback of Heir of Elriyon by K. Michele Moseley, a set of two loose-leaf teas, a set of character art, and a bookmark (US Only)
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It would be awesome if dragons were real.
ReplyDeleteDragons.
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