Keepers of Fire

The Demon is recruiting his servants.

An unthinkable twist of fate lands Dethar in the secret home of his archenemy, Arthen Brightscar, and a dribble of gossip informs him that the elusive but dangerous hero is long since dead. Chagrined at the loss of his chance for vengeance, Dethar turns his sights on Arthen's two young children and undefended widow. Killing them will simply have to satisfy.

Farming and adventuring have little in common, but Atia Morren longs for the day when she can follow the example of her cousin's husband, Arthen, and explore the world. But when the arrival of a cruel stranger smashes the tranquility of her home, Atia's daydreaming swells into mad desire. Escaping with a group of wanderers, she begins a quest to the dreaded Scadkai forest. Yet though Dethar took much from Atia, it begins to appear he left behind something of his own. Only Dethar could have given her the magic she suddenly possesses, and it is up to Atia to find out why.