They’d stopped Regar’s coup, but they’d lost to the queen.
And though almost no one knew, the emperor was dead.
“Are you going to become the empress, Anders VII?” Jace’s question was only half-joking.
Alena shook her head. Did control of the gates come with control of the empire? She had no idea. “I don’t want to be the empress. I’ll have to speak to Prince Olen.”
“Who is where, exactly?”
Alena didn’t know the answer to that, either. He’d been on a mission, but to where, she couldn’t imagine.
Their conversation lapsed into silence. They’d covered the same ground many times in the past few days, but still didn’t have good answers. They already planned on returning to the empire. Weylen had promised a substantial escort once negotiations were complete. Toren and Sheren had both asked to join, and Ana would accompany them, despite her current hatred for Alena. Alena’s war party remained intact, even if their hearts were broken.
Alena had a year to find the answers. Answers she hoped would be in the gates.
Jace stood up. He extended his hand to help her up. “I’m glad you decided to stay with us,” he said.
“I am, too.”
Alena reached up and accepted his proffered hand.
Then they walked down toward their uncertain future together.
Want more fantasy?
As always, thank you so much for reading this story. There’s an amazing number of great fantasy stories today, and it means so much to me that you picked this book up.
If you enjoyed this story, I also have two other fantasy series, filled with memorable characters. My first fantasy series is called Nightblade. You can check it out here:
Nightblade
I’ve also completed another fantasy trilogy called Relentless. You can find the first book in that series here:
Relentless Souls
Thank You
Before you take off, I really wanted to say thank you for taking the time to read my work. Being able to write stories for a living is one of the greatest gifts I’ve been given, and it wouldn’t be possible without readers.
So thank you.
Also, it’s almost impossible to overstate how important reviews are for authors in this age of internet bookstores. If you enjoyed this book, it would mean the world to me if you could take the time to leave a review wherever you purchased this book.
And finally, if you really enjoyed this book and want to hear more from me, I’d encourage you to sign up for my emails. I don’t send them too often - usually only once or twice a month at most, but they are the best place to learn about free giveaways, contests, sales, and more.
I sometimes also send out surprise short stories, absolutely free, that expand the fantasy worlds I’ve built. If you’re interested, please go to https://www.waterstonemedia.net/newsletter/.
With gratitude,
Ryan
Also by Ryan Kirk
The Nightblade Series
Nightblade
World’s Edge
The Wind and the Void
Blades of the Fallen
Nightblade’s Vengeance
Nightblade’s Honor
Nightblade’s End
Relentless
Relentless Souls
Heart of Defiance
Their Spirit Unbroken
Oblivion’s Gate
The Gate Beyond Oblivion
The Gates of Memory
The Primal Series
Primal Dawn
Primal Darkness
Primal Destiny
Primal Trilogy
The Code Series
Code of Vengeance
Code of Pride
Code of Justice
About the Author
Ryan Kirk is the bestselling author of the Nightblade series of books. When he isn’t writing, you can probably find him playing disc golf or hiking through the woods.
www.waterstonemedia.net
