CHAPTERS

PRologue

An endless darkness deluged the palace. The prince tried to call out — on his lips, Mother! His mouth guzzled the tide until his lungs and stomach were thronged with black. His throat swelled like a sponge. The darkness tasted sweet and rich like wine. His heart was sopping, heavy. The burden brought succor. 

A presence waded through the dark — familiar. His mother met his plea. Her face was shrouded. She spoke with two voices, You’re not my son. Pairs of hands forced him forward. He shuffled for footing, but found no ground. 

He fell.

Chapter ONe

At the bottom of the valley, backlit by firmament, the hill was a mass of black. Leander shaded his eyes from the halo of sun. The hilltop ushered him. Crests of grass rippled down the acclivity. They knelt as he approached. No one in the kingdom showed him so much respect.