The Fall of Openwater

(This story originally appeared as part three of The Thirteenth Talent.)

The Dogs wait outside the city, held back only by the defense Krysilla built with Zhiv and the others, but now that its proven itself, Zhiv is claiming their time as a group is done, and has begun to distance himself from her, forcing her to rely on herself to stay out of the reach of the binding that will take her back to Lejer if he asks.

But Zhiv has not abandoned her. In fact, hes finally discovered the truth about her talent, a truth that must be hidden from as many spellcasters as possible. A truth that must never be revealed to Disciple or Dog or Krysilla will have more than execution to fear.

When Lia reveals her late fathers plan for evacuating the city, Krysillas talent becomes vital. A truth that Zhiv begins to fight in every way possible.

Now Krysilla must find a way to save the city through a powerful Ornic relic without using the talent thats proven itself both useful and unpredictable thus far, and do it in a way that does not get her any closer to Zhiv Mikailsin, who has made it clear he wants to keep his distance, and yet cant seem to stay away.

Dogs outside the city, signs of sabotage within, a noble refusing to take her rightful place, and magic ancient, forbidden, tempting Krysilla to follow a path that has the marks of someone elses will for her future.

For a spell waits under the city for her, one that Zhiv will do anything to protect her from, even if it means letting the city burn.