by D. T. Kane
“Very good,” Devan said. “I’ll see you all again. Soon if I’m not mistaken. But who can say for sure with the current state of the Path?” He gave them another grin, then turned a final glance towards Autumn, who’d taken to running in and out of the cornfields at the edge of the clearing. Then he was gone, the tinkling of his chained rings echoing like a memory’s lullaby.
The four of them stood unmoving for several minutes more after Devan’s departure, as if none of them wished to be the first to move on. It was a frightening thing, not knowing what the future held. But that was life, wasn’t it? In the end, all one could do was keep those they cared about close and take what the day brought in stride. Then repeat for as many days as they were given.
So Jenzara stepped forward, motioning for the others to follow. Together they moved forward past the trees and on to whatever new trials and experiences the True Path held for them. The last thing she remembered before crossing the tree line was Autumn’s laughter, a good tiding for whatever their new lives held.
THE END of Book One of The Agarsfar Saga.
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About the Author
Daniel (D. T.) Kane grew up with a dad who read to him about wizards and dragons, and a mom who spent countless hours reviewing his book reports on novels about talking animals. He reads to himself now, but his taste in books hasn’t strayed far from his childhood days. Dan works in the legal field by day and spends nights and weekends working on his next novel. When he isn’t writing, he’s spending time with his wife, Linda, and dog, Buddy. They enjoy traveling, movies, and craft beer (Buddy sticks to water). To learn more, visit www.dtkane.com.
Acknowledgements
The basic story of Bladesorrow is one I’ve had in my head since I was a child, when I spent many hours reading tales of dragons and sword duels and talking animals. Even once I began writing in earnest in 2017, it took years for the tale to take on its final shape. Although I’m the one who put pen to paper, or fingers to keys, this novel would not have been possible without the support of many other individuals.
First, my mother and father, who, unwilling to accept my second-grade teacher’s decision to relegate me to the class’s “remedial” reading group, took it upon themselves to teach me reading and writing. Looking back on this, I’m both awed at the amount of time they spent teaching me outside of class and eternally grateful for their efforts. My writing ability is due almost exclusively to their efforts to personally further my education. I am also grateful to Dad for his editorial assistance with this novel.
Second, my wife, Linda, who allowed me to spend countless nights and weekends at the computer or with my notebooks, rather than with her. She also handled my self-doubt with grace and ceaseless encouragement. She is the best partner (and proofreader) I could ask for.
Third, my editor, Andy, the first person to read the manuscript of Bladesorrow. His words of praise helped convince me I was doing something right, and his editorial suggestions made Bladesorrow a much stronger novel.
Fourth, my sixth-grade teacher, Mrs. Adams, who told me everyone has a novel in them. I never forgot that—here’s mine.
Finally, to all those who have given me any sort of encouragement, including my sisters, Sarah and Susan, and friends, Bobby, Dave (a.k.a. Nellis), Paul, and Tony. Writing is a lonely pursuit, and it’s easy to be overcome by near-paralyzing doubt. Your kind words over the years meant more than you can know.
This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, organizations, and events portrayed in this novel are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.
BLADESORROW
Copyright © 2020 by D. T. Kane and Eremite Publishing
All rights reserved.
www.dtkane.com
ISBN 978-1-7350699-1-3 (ebook)
*FIRST EDITION*
Cover Design by Damonza.com
Map created by D. T. Kane using Inkarnate
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