Chapters (34)
The ground quakes. I tumble sideways, grabbing Prince Meilek’s shoulder as he braces himself on the ground. Conversations screech to a halt, silence descending on the camps. Power ripples over the grasslands like a physical blow, nearly knocking me backward. Sparks fly from the campfire, spilling smoke and cinders.
I know this power. It resonates inside me.
Prince Meilek stands, pulling me to my feet as well. All heads turn as one toward the Dead Wood. A great moaning rises from the dark mass, louder and louder as if all the souls are shrieking at once.
And suddenly, I understand what Ronin meant when he said it was only his power that could keep Thiy safe.
Ronin defeated the Soulless, but he hadn’t killed him. Perhaps he’d been unable to. So instead, Ronin contained him within a cocoon, injecting him with venom not to preserve his body but to keep him asleep, trapped in a deathlike state for centuries.
Until I freed him when I killed Ronin.
Soulrender, he’d whispered with his dying breath. I thought it was an accusation, but it wasn’t. It was a warning.
END OF BOOK ONE
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This story has lived inside my head and on my hard drive for so long that it’s almost unreal to know it’ll at last be in the hands of readers.
Suzie Townsend, thank you for not giving up on Sirscha and for being an anchor in the hurricane that was writing and rewriting this book. I’m grateful for you beyond measure. Devin Ross, I can only wonder at how lucky I am to have you on my side. Thank you for your wisdom and humor and sharp editorial eye.
Ashley Hearn, I could never have discovered the heart of this book without your guidance. Thank you and the entire Page Street team for believing in Sirscha’s story. Even more, thank you for your enthusiasm, support, and excellent use of caps lock.
I also dearly need to thank Mindee Arnett for reading so many drafts of this book that I’ve lost count. Not only that, but for always being there to brainstorm, commiserate, and cheer me on. I couldn’t have asked for a better critique partner and friend.
Massive thanks to all the friends, colleagues, and kindhearted folks who read the book at different points in its many, many drafts: Lauren Teffeau, Carrie DiRisio, Heather Kassner, Cassandra Newbould, Christina Soontornvat, Erin Arkin, Jessica Rubinowski, Linda Canniff, and Lee Bross. I’m also forever grateful to my Fellowship, friends who’ve been there through crises and joys, through fandom and fanfic and publishing: Emily, Patricia, Audrey, Imaan, Aamyra, and Lyn.
Lastly, thank you to my family for never doubting me. For encouraging me to dream, and for always being proud no matter how small the accomplishment.