Showing results by author "James R. Vernon" in All Categories

Ven Khalida is a land of magic and gods. Settlements abound, both large and small, each with a life of their own and hidden secrets. Except Rottwealth. A backwater village, surrounded by mountains and ignored by most, nothing of merit ever leaves the valley. Aside, of course, from the mystical plant which shares its name. A plant that can heal even the most dire wounds in a matter of moments, and flourishes within the swamp that takes up part of the valley.

The last person Ean Sangrave expects to see on his return home from the Deadlands is the magician, Sadiek Nidot. Two years ago, he killed Ean and stripped the lovely Azalea of her wings. Upon seeing his murderer, Ean can’t decide if he fears using his own dark power more than he thirsts for revenge. The brief moment of indecision allows the crafty Sadiek to slip through Ean's fingers, but not before he gleefully reveals that Rottwealth, Ean's hometown, is in danger. Ean speeds to the land of his birth and rebirth on a mission to save it.

Ean Sangrave never thought he would have any of those things, but what a difference a year makes. Now, he's practically king of the abandoned mine on the edge of Rottwealth, surrounded by loyal creatures from the Abyss who live to carry out his every whim. Then there are his closest friends, Zin and Azalea, his only friends, always ready and willing to bring him back to reality. They want what is best for Ean but don't trust in his ability to plan for the future.

Ean Sangrave's friends are gone. At least, his human ones are. Zin, as always, is by his side. Years of advice and getting Ean out of trouble has earned him the title of Ean's closest friend. Joining them now is Azalea the Yulari, another creature from the Abyss that feeds off the emotions of her victims to the point of death. Summoned in a moment of jealousy, Azalea would have killed Ean's friends if he had not stopped her in time.

Whilst faith can be practiced anywhere religious faith is usually at a church or temple. The stories in this volume are centered both in houses of worship and with those with a strong association to its calling. Of course, short story authors have a determined belief in their undoubted talents to make us look at this subject from different angles. In this volume they take us on literary journeys that are revealing and challenging yet always entertaining.