Most humans think the fair folk vanished from their lands over a century ago after a bloody war that should’ve driven us all out. But here’s a little secret—some of us never left.
Oh, the elves? They’re hiding in plain sight (not that humans are observant enough to notice). Then there’s me, an orc using a glamour to blend in. My name is Magdud, and I don’t just live in Carrus, a city in northeastern Trinth—I run the place.
As the magistrate, I spend my days keeping the peace, managing disputes, and making sure this city stays the wealthiest in the kingdom. A bit ironic, considering I used to fight humans. Now, I’m sipping tea in silk pajamas at night, and by day, I’m overseeing trade agreements and tax disputes. If my old commander saw me now, he’d probably keel over—or try to challenge me to a duel. Hard to say. Orcs aren’t known for their flexibility.
I used to think humans were my greatest enemy. Living among them now, I’ll admit, they’re not all bad. Not perfect either—but who is? These days, I’ve got my eyes on a different problem. The Elven Council—now there’s a group that deserves watching. I can’t exactly question them openly (unless I fancy a one-way trip to a fae dungeon), but I’m not blind to their schemes. Let’s just say enemies aren’t always wearing uniforms; sometimes, they’re flashing wide smiles and handing out compliments.
The council still sees me as some retired warrior, the orc who survived a thousand battles. What they don’t realize is that my strength now lies in leadership—and that’s how I’ve kept Carrus peaceful, despite the growing rumbles of chaos outside and the occasional Seeker inside (corrupted humans can be quite destructive, believe it or not). It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary. Balancing who I was with who I am now is tricky, but if I can juggle a cockatrice, I can juggle this.
Speaking of juggling... I’ve got a soft spot these days—my baby cockatrice, Princess. She’s not exactly legal, but what fun would that be? She’s chewed through every table leg in the house, melted more than a few floors, and recently took two of my fingers for a snack. Don’t worry, they’ve grown back—orc perks. She’s a menace, but I can’t help being attached to the little beast.
While I like to think everything’s under control, there’s a nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach. (Though, let’s be real, it could just be the stew. You never know with tavern food.) The real trouble? Orion. He’s the king’s messenger and, unfortunately, my responsibility in the human realm. Normally, I wouldn’t mind as he’s grown on me like a fungus (in other words, like a little brother who doesn’t totally irritate me). He’s reliable, even if he takes himself a bit too seriously (he’s been through a lot, true, but he should learn to relax a bit). And ever since he started tracking down some elf maiden, he’s been unpredictable. And if there’s one thing I hate, it’s unpredictable.
If Orion stirs up trouble, I’ll be dragged into it faster than a cockatrice can devour a chair leg. I’ve worked too hard to build this life—this quiet life in Carrus. If he messes it all up, I’ll lose everything I’ve fought for. And trust me, I’ve no interest in going back to the orc city filled with endless drills and bloodshed (and no silk pajamas). So, for now, my top priority is keeping Orion out of trouble—and keeping myself far away from the inevitable disaster.
Realms of Alysatree #2
A war is coming. Truths come to light. Sacrifices must be made.
Ivy has always known that the Elven Council holds the fate of both humans and fair folk in their hands, but now their devious agenda threatens to destroy everything she holds dear. Trapped in a realm with an icy princess, deadly amulets, and fresh wounds, the least of Ivy's concerns might be her shattered heart—she may also lose her innate magic. Without a Gathering seed, Ivy won't survive long in either realm.
Orion has finally secured the acceptance and power he's craved all his life and stands at his father's side within the elite ranks of the court. Though he's where he has longed to be, he finds himself torn between the family he's always wanted and the elf maiden he has fallen for. His loyalties are shifting, and one wrong move could cost him everything.
Old prejudices are surfacing, poison is spreading, and allies and enemies are gathering. Ivy and Orion's love and loyalty might be the key to saving their worlds—or the spark that ignites their downfall.
Elven Council in Ashes is the second book in the Alysatraee duology. A story of redemption, fighting when you need to and finding contentment when you don't, and sacrifices that lead to happily ever afters.
Fantasy Historical | Action | Fiction Adventure [Oliver-Heber Books, On Sale: January 7, 2025, e-Book , / ]
Kristin J. Dawson is a non-recovering chocolate and romantic English movie addict who loves to read fantasy and science fiction. You can find her most often indulging in her favorite things at 2 am–night owls unite! Kristin writes high fantasy with political intrigue, a bit of romance, and of course, magic. She was a 2019 UTOPiAcon Debut Book Award Nominee and Swooney Award Nominee. When she’s not writing, taking her kids on mountain adventures, or cleaning out the chicken coop, she's probably trying to talk her author friends into more shenanigans
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