The Dragon's Bane

By Jasper Wolfe

The Dragon's Bane

The Dragon's Bane" is a gripping tale of magic, courage, and redemption set in a fantastical world where dragon riders serve a tyrannical Dragon King. Lyra Moonshadow, a determined young woman, harbors a deep hatred for the dragon rider who took her sister. But when she is chosen to serve, she discovers that things are not as black and white as they seem. Journeying through perilous lands, battling inner demons, and uncovering ancient secrets, Lyra's path intertwines with Kael Darkflame, the very man she despises. Together, they face unimaginable challenges and must decide if their combined strength can bring down a kingdom ruled by fear and deception. Will Lyra's quest for revenge lead to her destruction, or will she find a new purpose and the courage to save those she loves?

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jasper Wolfe
• Release date: Jun 7, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224618057

Book preview

Chapter 1: The Day of Choosing

Lyra Moonshadow woke with a start, her heart pounding in her chest. The morning sun had barely begun to peek over the horizon, casting a pale light across the village of Eldenwood. Today was the Day of Choosing, the day she had dreaded for the past twenty-five years. Every year, a dragon rider descended upon their village, selecting one unfortunate soul to be taken to the lair of the Dragon King. For Lyra, it was a day filled with painful memories and a burning desire for revenge.

Five years ago, her sister, Elara, had been chosen. Elara had been the light of Lyra's life, her confidant and best friend. When the dragon rider, Kael Darkflame, had taken her away, it had shattered Lyra's world. Since then, she had harbored a single, all-consuming desire: to kill the Dragon King and the rider who had stolen her sister.

Lyra rose from her bed and dressed quickly, her movements mechanical. She glanced at herself in the mirror, taking in her reflection. Her dark hair was pulled back into a tight braid, her green eyes glinting with determination. She had prepared for this day, training in secret, honing her skills with a sword and studying ancient texts on magic. Today, she would finally get her chance to avenge her sister.

The village square was already bustling with activity when Lyra arrived. The villagers gathered in hushed groups, their faces pale with fear. Lyra could feel the tension in the air, the sense of impending doom that hung over them like a dark cloud.

The sound of wings beating the air made Lyra look up. A massive shadow passed over the village, and a collective gasp rose from the crowd. The dragon rider had arrived.

Kael Darkflame dismounted his dragon with practiced ease, his dark cloak billowing around him. He was an imposing figure, tall and broad-shouldered, with piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through you. His presence commanded respect and fear in equal measure.

Lyra's hand tightened around the hilt of her hidden dagger. She watched as Kael surveyed the crowd, his gaze cold and calculating. She willed herself to remain calm, to wait for the right moment.

Kael began to speak, his voice carrying over the hushed whispers of the villagers. Today is the Day of Choosing. One among you will be chosen to serve the Dragon King. Step forward when your name is called.

The tension in the square grew palpable as Kael unrolled a scroll. He began to read out names, and one by one, villagers stepped forward, their faces etched with fear and resignation. Lyra's heart pounded in her chest as she waited, every muscle in her body tensed for action.

And the chosen one is... Lyra Moonshadow.

For a moment, the world seemed to stand still. Lyra's breath caught in her throat, and she felt the weight of every eye in the village upon her. She hadn't expected to be chosen. She had planned to strike from the shadows, to ambush Kael and take him down. But now, the opportunity had presented itself in a way she hadn't anticipated.

Lyra stepped forward, her heart pounding. Kael's gaze locked onto hers, and for a moment, she thought she saw a flicker of recognition in his eyes. But then it was gone, replaced by his usual cold