Artesia II

With improving conditions in the kingdom, the new Kings still find themselves estranged from the powerful Sorcerer Myrddin. While perhaps no one could have stopped the abduction and possible murder of his only daughter, the lack of any attempt on the part of Artesia has caused a chasm between the founder and descendents of the once great kingdom. Though only three of the four Shieldlets remain in the possession of the new Kings-a gift provided at great personal cost by Myrddin to protect their land-the only chance for a rescue means using that same power outside the borders, leaving the land even further exposed. Even still, a traitor remains in their midst, guilty of murdering a prior king and no doubt still working to subvert the new dual monarchy, but the Sorcerer's daughter may be able to reveal the horrible truth. In the midst of cultural and political upheaval, two young men must also face personal challenges: old family wounds resurface for an often belittled and ignored former prince as he refuses to accept similar relationships in his new kingdom, just as a pauper must take a giant leap and establish his footing as a co-ruler. For the sake of honor and as partial repayment for years of benevolent care, the kingdom must risk everything for the sake of a few; the young Kings must unite the many races of their new kingdom and blend the various strengths of all to achieve a nearly impossible goal: rescue the Sorcerer's daughter.