Embers of the Forgotten Hunt
Kate Mercy
73,411 Words
73,411 Words
Elowen's life in Ember Hollow revolves around the rhythm of the coal mines, tight-knit community gatherings, and traditions passed down from generation to generation. A skilled huntress, Elowen carrie s the burden of providing for her family after her father’s untimely death, navigating the male-dominated world of hunting with fierce determination and unyielding spirit. Her latest kill, a magnificent cougarin, secures her reputation among the villagers and brings a sense of triumph and relief to her family. Amidst the soot-dusted cobblestones and humble thatched roofs, Ember Hollow thrives in its rugged simplicity, overshadowed by the grandeur of the capital city, Emerald Haven. Here, life is grounded in the basics, yet the villagers harbor deep pride and resilience, carving their existence from the earth’s bounties. For Elowen, routine comforts melt into excitement with the onset of May Day and the whispered possibility of a future courtship with Thorian, the town's charming guard. However, the tranquility of Ember Hollow is shattered by an unexpected announcement: King Kieran Thalion is searching for a new queen after the tragic death of Queen Isolde and their unborn children. His urgent quest sends a ripple of shock and intrigue through the village, as the king’s emissaries, known for their keen sniffing abilities, are dispatched to unearth eligible women with the magical prowess to bear a dragon heir. Elowen scoffs at the notion that a girl from Ember Hollow could ever be chosen, yet fate has other plans. As whispers and rumors circulate, she finds herself entangled in a web of destiny far beyond her imagining. The king's search for a powerful wife thrusts Elowen into a world where her innate talents and fierce independence are put to the ultimate test. In a whirlwind of royal intrigue, hidden magic, and timeless tradition, she must navigate her way through newfound challenges and dangers, all while staying true to herself and the family she cherishes. Will Elowen’s hunting skills and unyielding spirit make her a key player in Flamehaven’s future? And can the bonds of her humble village withstand the powerful forces that threaten to reshape their world? Only time and courage will tell in this gripping tale of strength, love, and destiny.