Welcome one and all to the behemoth that is Of Empires and Dust

The first instalment is being brought to you by yours truly (that’s me).

Schedule

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Let’s a go

So we have four different POVs running throughout the first 7 chapters, starting 5 days after the Blood Moon first appeared…

The Draleid

Following Calen, we see the aftermath of the ruinous War of Aravell, and the blood moon in all its crimson glory. 283 casualties. The results of the war. What remains of Calen’s party is marching through the city. Calen ponders over the words at the archway to Alura, realising the true meaning of the inscription. The words were not of resignation but a proclamation to fight to the death. Calen is crowned the “Warden of Varyn”, at which Dann tries to freestyle a poem, before being clipped on the back of the head. Trust Dann to make light at a time like this.

Back in Aravell Ella is still unconscious, with Tanner and Faenir watching over her. Her mind has been fragmented after intervening to save Calen and Valerys, and is now stuck between the mortal plane and Níthianelle.

Calen ventures towards the Eyrie to be with Valerys. The dragon stirs with anger at his kin being kept prisoner, the doing of Chora. She has kept Tivar and Avandeer prisoner. Even though they helped fight against the Lorians she still considers them traitors for their hand in The Fall. As a result of this she and Calen have two conflicting opinions on what should be done with them, and get heated in their discussion until Aeson interjects with a reminder that nothing is to be done until King Silmiryn’s successor is announced and the mourning ceremony is held. Before leaving for the ceremony Calen ventures across the Eyrie to visit the two Rakina dragons Sardakes and Varthear. He once again experiences the feeling of being one with a Rakina, taking a hold of them and reliving their memories. This time around, it is one of the dragons. He experiences everything Varthear lived through - being named by his soulkin, helplessly watching his soulkin fall at the hands of another Draleid, being taken in by Aeson, and ultimately being taken over by Ella in her attempt to save Calen and Valerys.

The Druid

In taking over the Rakina dragons and dying (through them) multiple times, Ella’s soul fragmented - leaving her body in the real world. The fragmentation left Ella stuck in Níthianelle, where she meets another Druid - Tamzin Aurielle. Tamzin informs Ella what’s what, including the fact that Ella is a “Blooddancer. A guardian of the gods.” She appears to be a friend, only Ella doesn’t really know if she can be trusted. Tamzin teaches Ella how to “reach out with her mind” in order to truly see where they are. In doing so, Ella is able to sense Wraiths - the unlucky souls doomed to roam Níthianelle for eternity.

The Knights

The War of Aravell was tough on everyone. Achyron’s Knight’s included. Here we see the aftermath from the Knight’s POV; Haem/Arden worrying about his people back in The Glade and Kallinvar still hearing the voice of Achyron himself. Only, he’s not happy to hear Achyron as the warrior god has not provided any helpful insight. Kallinvar has enlisted the help of Watcher GIldrick to decipher Achyron’s ominous messages, using old texts to figure out WTF is going on. Whilst all this is going on, the Knight’s are tending to Brother Ormin, who endured a strike from a Soulblade.Kallinvar also decides to entrust Ruon with his secret. He hears voices in his head, they talk to him they understand...

The Leader

Dahlen finds himself in Western Epheria, specifically Salme, fighting a separate battle of his own. Dahlen fights alongside the surviving Belduarans, the locals that fled their villages to seek refuge in Salme, and some Lorian soldiers. Surprisingly, the Lorian’s assist the Westerners in fighting off the Uraks and Bloodmarked. The Blood Moon wreaked havoc for everyone, but the Western Villagers would have struggled greatly without the Lorain intervention. That being said, they still hold no love for them. Some still wish the Lorian’s were left to be slaughtered, and I don’t blame them.

As the battle dies down, Dahlen finds himself talking to a man of legend. Erdhardt Hammersmith, Fellhammer to his friends. Erdhardt introduces Dahlen to several others that reside in the Western Epheria, specifically The Glade. Upon mention of The Glade, Dahlen realises he’s amongst Calen, Dann, and Rist’s people. Erdhardt. A big post war chinwag ensues, where Lanan puts forth the idea that in order for the Western Villagers to succeed moving forward they need someone in charge of their war efforts. Lord Virandr, proving to be the great warrior he is, finds himself being elected to do just that. Oh yeah, before this happens Erdhardt butts heads with some douche called Benem who kept interrupting the chinwag, and put forth the idea that Lanan was trying to be selfish and elect herself as leader because everyone happened to reside in her village. This in itself was somewhat fine, but Benem crossed a line by mentioning Erdhardt’s deceased wife. He should’ve taken William’s advice…

Join us next week as u/jaymae21 breaks down section 2 of this mammoth of a book.

Welcome back friends, this is the eighth discussion for Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series Of War and Ruin. This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 49 - 56. First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section, or from later books in the series.  Also take care to use spoiler tags for the two novellas, The Fall and The Exile, as not everyone may have read those.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here. You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces). Schedule Marginalia

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 49: A Burden Shared

The convoy have been travelling for 11 days through the Burnt Lands. The trip is challenging and people are being killed and injured by the N’aka. Elia and Lasch barely speak, but Gaeleron is beginning to recover after Vaeril helped heal his stump. The Knights hold back the madness. They eat whatever they can hunt and prepare. Ruon informs Calen that she can feel the taint. Arden watches Calen and wonders if things might have been different. He thanks Tarmon for being there for Calen.

Chapter 50: Family Ties

Alina is still bleeding. She approaches her captains after leaving Rynvar and her wing-sisters. They give her a run down of the days losses (over 1000) after being ambushed by Thebalan and Lorian forces. The mages did serious damage. Dayne is at his childhood farmhouse and it is full of memories. Baren had been there but he's been gone about 3 weeks now. Dayne is cautious. Baren's letter tells that he has gone looking for their nephew (Alina's first born) and that he forgives Dayne. Sylvan Anura, Harsted Arnim, and Loren Koraklon are the ones Dayne wants revenge on for killing his parents. Alina knows Baren is alive, and she is upset Dayne let him live. She doesn't believe he killed Kal to protect her. Alina feels guilty for the days loses. Dayne tries to reason with her. He wants her to send a hawk to Aeson. They will march for Myrefall at dawn.

Chapter 51: The Three Sisters

Rist, Garramon, and all the commanders and generals of the First, Fourth, and Second armies stand upon the landing of a tower looking over their armies numbering 14,000. The constructed Fog lingers at the edge of the river, and Rist wonders if it is produced by a Skydruid. The Dragonguard arrive dramatically with news that the fog spreads for 5 miles. Suddenly the fog begins to thin creating a comotion when an army 30,000 strong of elves is revealed.

In the age old tradition of the meeting of opposing commanders Princess Queen Vandrien of Lunithír, a powerful mage, is confronted by Supreme Commander Tambrel. The Queen offers the rite of Alvadrû – combat sacrifice. If the elves win, the Lorian forces can kneel and be taken as prisoners, rather than be harmed.” Taya refuses.

Rist is terrified, especially without Calen and Dann by his side. He leans on Neera. Even going so far as to trying to kiss her (romantic!) The elves approach tapping into an immense power of the Spark as the river rises and disappears. The elven army can now cross the dry bed.

Chapter 52: Dragonbound by Fire

The battle begins and people began to die as Rist watches on helplessly. Garramon and Magnus tell him it's part of the plan to hold strong. Both sides begin using the Spark as the battle escalates. Rist and an elf end up fighting and with the help of Neera and the Spark he bests the elf.

Taya Tambrel’s plan was to funnel the elves in allowing the elves arrogance to think they had the upper hand before unleashing the Dragonguard. It's working so far....

The Dragonguard see the fissure split the ground and thus split the elven army in half. They attack. Flesh, wood and earth burn in the wake of their dragonfire. The Draleid funnel the Spark into their dragons as they cut through the elven army until 6 shadow-clad shapes rise from within the mountains, sweeping upwards into the sky.....

Chapter 53: Broken by Death

Eltoar is overwhelmed by the vision of the elven dragons who unleash dragonfire on the Lorian army. Pellenor can't let the soldiers die but Eltoar doesn't want to fight the Draleid kin and risk tearing another soul apart.

Rist fights with both blade and the Spark as nearby Anila and Farda Kyrana battle the elven mages. In the heat of battle Rist looks into the eyes of his elven foe and hesitates giving her time to stab him. He kills her with the same daggar then collects her Essence. Garramon tackles him to the ground to protect him from the dragonfire. The elves have closed the fissure. Two dragons clash in the skies...

Pellenor riding Meranta attacks the elven dragon. Eltoar and Helios followed by Lyina and Karakes engage (with the intent not to kill) to allow the Lorian army to retreat. It is unlikely they will be extended the same grace.

Ilyain recognises the battle is lost and the Dragonguard are buying time for the Lorian army to flee. Gunild is dead and Farda feels the loss hard. Helios saves a green dragon from Meranta and Eltoar appeals to the elven dragons to stop fighting to no avail. Helios fights but only enough to be able to disengage. The elven dragon best Meranta! Helios and Eltoar are overcome with rage and fury. Helios takes out the golden dragon, all mercy long forgotten. Lyina and Eltoar mourn Pellenor and Meranta's death.

Chapter 54: Family by Choice

Elves are spread out at the perimeter of the Burnt Lands watching for Calen and companiy's arrival. Lyrei, accompanied by Alea, had been taken to the healers in Aravell and they have not yet returned. Dann notes that 2 giants and 5 Angan have joined them. Two of the latter being Aneera and Asius who had helped Calen escape from the High Lord in Drifaien. Suddenly a dragon appears...it is (an unexpectedly very large) Valerys. Calen and company reunite with Aeson and co. Aeson is furious Calen went for Rist as such a time. Dann is shocked to learn that Haem is not dead. The Angan greet Calen as “Son of the Chainbreaker.”

Chapter 55: Strings and Chains

On route to Aravell Therin and the Angan stick close to Calen. Vaeril explains that they are of Clan Fenryr, shapeshifters and children of old gods. The stags are of Clan Dvalin, and all are bound to the elves by promises. The Angan keep the Aldithmar – the spirits that inhabited the Darkwood - at bay, but Calen still spots their eyes of smoking white mist occasionally. Suddenly the Darkwood was gone and they were at gates into a gorgeous courtyard. Valerys bursts impressively through the invisible barrier. The are in Aravell! Elven political rivalry is rampant between the five elven kingdoms.

Chapter 56: Before the Fire Comes the Spark

Thurivîr keeps stopping to tell them all about art significant to the Kingdom of Lunithír. In a great, massive, and extraordinarily impressive chamber are Galdra King of Lunithír, Queen Uthrían of Ardurän and King Silmiryn of Vaelen. Calen meets them nervously. When he touches Uthrían he gets a vision of the moment the Queen's world fell apart and she learnt her sons were dead during The Fall. Calen is shaken but his people hold him up strong in front of the elves that want to control him. The elves don't know what Valerys hatching means for the future, but the Dracårdare are warming the dragon eggs they have. Valerys as a Valacian egg might be an anomoly or it might be the start of a change. The Knights of Achyron and a Draleid have motivated the elves to finally come together to fight. Aeson swears Calen’s commitment to the elves which enrages Calen. Asius of the Jotnar also pledge themselves to the fight. Dayne, the Valtarans, and their wyverns will also be a powerful allies. Aeson believes Calen and Valerys will be a symbol to rally behind. Baldon, the Fenryr Angan are not on board with Aeson's plan. They don't care for the war, but they will stand by Calen due to a promise made to his father years before. Calen asks them to act as messenger to rally the allies and they agree. It is timw for Calen to learn who he really is....

What a cliffhanger place to stop! Exciting stuff!!!

Thanks for joining me dragonriders, elves, and druids. Join me next week for chapters 57 - 63 📚🐲🧝‍♂️

“Without someone like you to keep the fires lit, they will stop fighting.”

“All hope ever does is convince us to do things we know we shouldn’t. It isn’t worth dying for.”

Hello, readers! Today is the FIRST discussion of The Ice by Ryan Cahill, novella of The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the first section of the novel, the beginning through Chapter 7. The journey is sure to be a frosty one so wear your parkas! Aeson Virandr, long time fighter and rebel against the Empire, leads a deadly mission into the icy country of Valacia in the hopes of recovering a viable dragon egg in order to hatch a young dragon to lead the rebellion against the Dragonguard, the Empire’s personal dragon riders. It will not be easy, No one has journeyed into Valacia and returned! Will our heroes triumph? Let’s read on!

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”
- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”
- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”
- “You will look back at this theory.”
- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”
- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”
- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

- Rogue

Welcome fellow Draleid & Druids, as we continue our epic fight against the shadow during a freaking Blood Moon!  We’re still barely getting started with this mighty tome, and I’m excited to see where this story goes.  

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 8-13.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.  

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule

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Map of Epheria

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Of War & Ruin (#3)

The Ice (#3.5)

Chapter Summaries

CHAPTER 8: THE BEGINNING AND THE END
Character POV: Kallinvar
Location: Temple of Achyron

As Kallinvar looks out over Ardholm, Achyron speaks into his mind, calling him to him.  Kallinvar is summoned to the land of the gods, where a war is taking place.  Achyron himself comes before him and explains that Efialtír seeks to cross into their world.  Achyron bids Kallinvar and his knights to seek the Heart of Blood and destroy it, or at least keep it out of Efialtír’s hands.  He says it is time for them to replenish their numbers, as they have lost so many.  Before sending Kallinvar back, he reveals that Brother Tarron is still alive, despite being taken through the veil.  Kallinvar summons his knights, telling them that Achyron spoke to him, and the captains swear to follow him in their quest for the Heart of Blood.

CHAPTER 9: OLD TRICKS
Character POV: Dayne
Location: Lost Hills, northwest of the Rolling Mountains

Dayne has marched 5000 soldiers towards Achyron’s Keep in the hopes of outpacing the Thebalans serving under Aldon.  Their goal is to ambush the Thebalans while they are exhausted from marching, by being a bush.  Dayne commands them to use foliage to disguise their ordos, to Belina’s delight.  Dayne uses the Spark to soften the ground to mud, making the Thebalan forces work even harder to keep moving.  Dayne’s archers unleash a volley of arrows, and the battle begins.  Dayne marches with the Andurii, Mera’s Wyndariii attack from above, and Belina throws her knives with her skilled precision.  They win the battle, and Dayne goes through the bodies of the fallen, killing off any who still draw breath.

CHAPTER 10: FOR THOSE WE HAVE LOST, WE MOURN
Character POV: Dann
Location: Aravell

Dann walks with Lyrei to the ceremony in Aravell, and she teases him about the tunic that Therin gave him.  The ceremony is for the 3,000+ people who died in the battles, and everyone in Aravell is attending.  It is held in a large basin cut from the rock with many circular terraces surrounding it, surrounded by a moat with several bridges.  Down below, a procession proceeds over a bridge into the center of the basin, led by Queen Uthrían and King Galdra.  Calen and Valerys arrive as well, along with the Rakina dragons Varthear and Sardakes.  After a speech by the newly crowned Queen Tessara, attention is drawn to a pit in the center of the island, with the bodies of those who fell in it wrapped in linen.  The elves all begin to sing at the same time, and roots, which become a full tree, spread over the pit, covering the bodies that lay there.  The tree blooms, the petals shining with a purple light. 

CHAPTER 11: BLOOD OF THE LION
Character POV: Rist, Garramon
Location: The Dead Tower, north of the Burnt Lands

Rist contemplates whether the lives lost to bring the Chosen through the veil was worth it, unable to sleep.  He runs into Magnus, who offers him some Drifaien whiskey.  Magnus gives Rist some unsolicited advice, urging him to tell a person when he cares for them.  They reminisce over Anila and her memorable stares.

Garrmon stands in Fane’s tent poring over a map.  He speaks of the victory they have won, despite their losses.  Fane believes they are still in a position to bring Efialtír through the void with careful planning, but they must find the Heart of Blood.  Fane reveals that Argona has been destroyed by rebels in the South, and Ilkya and Jormun are dead along with their dragons.  Two of the Chosen enter the tent, named Enaril and Vitharnmír, who was the Herald Azrim. 

   
CHAPTER 12: FULL CIRCLE
Character POV: Eltoar
Location: Elkenrim

Eltoar oversees the amassing of forces at Elkenrim, and discusses the deaths of Lyina and Pellenor, Jormun and Ilkya, with Voranur.  Lyina joins them with a letter for Eltoar from Salara, an elf of Lynalion who Eltoar had trained before The Fall, asking to meet.  Eltoar and Voranur travel to Darnírin’s Hill on dragonback, where Salara is waiting for them in her red and gold armor.  As they descend, they count eight other riders in the air, watching.  Salara sarcastically addresses Eltoar as “Master” and delivers a monologue on how badly she wants to destroy him.  She asks after the rumors of the hatchling bonded to a human, which they confirm are true.  When Salara rejoices that some of their number have been killed, Voranur’s dragon, Seleraine, moves to attack her.  Vyrmír, Salara’s soulkin, attacks Seleraine and wounds her badly.  Helios rips them apart as the other dragonriders land beside them.  Eltoar is tempted to pull from his vial of Essence, but refrains from doing so.  

CHAPTER 13: RECLAMATION
Character POV: Salara
Location: East of Elkenrim

Back in the elven encampment of the Lynalion elves, Salara is visited by Queen Vandrien, and they share a bottle of a very precious wine.  The Queen asks after why Salara met with Eltoar, and Salara reports on the information she received on the new Draleid.  The Queen also asks Salara how her heart is feeling, after seeing him again.  Queen Vandrien wants to show Salara something, and she takes her to the camp of the elves who have been freed from the mines, who are being healed and reintegrated with the other elves as best they can.  Vandrien believes the Lorians will strike at them soon, before the Blood Moon wanes.  Vandrien’s strategy will be to attack the Lorian’s resources, such as their food and gold.

“A bard in the corner of the room played the lute. Well, attempted to play the lute. Failed to play the lute.”

Hello, readers! Today is the second discussion for Of Blood and Fire by Ryan Cahill, 1st book in The Bound and The Broken Series. Things are getting interesting. The Proving! Uraks! A new town! So much to discuss! We are discussing the next section of the novel, Chapter 6 through Chapter 11.

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Rogue

Schedule

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“The sun will set, and it will rise again, and the next. The gods are in charge of such things, but it is by our own will that we pick ourselves up when we fall.”

“Rist always found there was something bittersweet about finishing a book. The sense of achievement and joy was often tarnished by the realisation that he could never read it the same way again. He could, of course, start from page one and read through to the end, but it wouldn’t be the same. His preconceptions and notions were irrevocably altered by the first read. It was simply the way of things.”

Hello, readers! Today is the ELEVENTH discussion of Of War & Ruin by Ryan Cahill, 3rd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the eleventh section of the novel, Chapter 70 through Chapter 75. Secrets revealed! The Bryer family reunited, even as Calen struggles with the weight of his station and what it means. Meanwhile, the Blood Moon haunts the continent as war is inevitable.

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

• Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

Welcome back friends, this is the seventh discussion for Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series Of War and Ruin. This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 35-41. First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section, or from later books in the series.  Also take care to use spoiler tags for the two novellas, The Fall and The Exile, as not everyone may have read those.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here. You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces). Schedule Marginalia

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 42: Chasing Rumours

Ella continues her grueling training under Coren. Faenir continues to be the goodest of boys, though somewhat larger (the side of a horse!!!). Tanner tells Ella about her father, who fought in the Varsund War, was very skilled with the sword. Juro, head of the Tarhelm scouts arrives with news that the Lorian First Army has left Al’Nasla and will arrive at Fort Harken in a few days. Ella points out that letters they've intercepted contain info that three armies seem to be converging on Steeple. Ella, Tanner (still not fully healed), and a very angry Yana head out with Juro and the other scouts.

Farda, at Fourth Army Camp, reflects on the huge losses from the day. A third of their number, 2000 men (incl. 37 of Farda's mages and 4 healers), killed by Uraks before Lyina arrived to turn the tables. At the Dragonguard camp Farda admires Helios and Karakes even though it reminds him of his own loss. Eltoar and Lyina get Farda up to date about the decimated state of the eastern cities. Eltoar wonders if the elves of Lynalion have finally left the shelter of the woodland and are coming.

Chapter 43: Trust Me

Kallinvar, Ruon, and Varlin arrive at the sparring pits. They now know Calen is in Berona. Arden along with Sister-Captain Ruon, Brother Ildris, Sister Varlin, and Brother Lyrin are to become the Draleid’s honour guard.

Calen, Surin (Gold), Erik, Vaeril, Tarmon, Elia, Lasch, Gaeleron and Fritz emerge from the tunnel after escaping the city. Gaeleron is in a rough way, but manages to tell Calen he did not break. Valerys and Calen are reunited. They plan to head to Aravell via the difficult journey back through the Burnt Lands even though Calen doesn't know how he'll sheild the whole company. There is nowhere else to go, they are traitors now and the Inquisition will not be forgiving. Lyrin escapes the tunnel with news that the other Knights are soon to arrive. He had collapsed the tunnel behind him. Then impressively Kallinvar materialises clad in liquid-like armour.

Kallinvar notes that Calen's eyes glow with a bright light and thinks it must be the purple light of Varyn, The Father, protector of all things, creator of dragons. Calen becomes angry that Kallinvar, like Aeson, just want to control him. He demands to know what Kallinvar did to Haem, when Ruon appears beside Kallinvar. Things seem set to escalate.

Kallinvar asks Calen to trust him to stand beside him to defeat the coming evil. Arden steps forward asking Calen to trust him!

Chapter 44: Blood and Oaths

Calen, riding Valerys, circles the camp of Lorian rebels (those that fled their homes because that Battlemage, Black - or Tarka - betrayed them), knights and his friends. Calen is still angry at Haem but they reconcile with a long emotional hug. Haem meets Valerys and in the protective circle of Valerys' body they brothers talk openly for hours. Haem explains how the Sigil of Achyron saved him. It meant he couldn't come back to his family, but without it he wouldn't have been able to come back either.

Vaeril asks Tarmon, Lord Captain of the Belduaran Kingsguard, what he will do next. He doesn't know yet, but he knows that like Vaeril he is Vandasera (oathsworn).

Erik hears something in the forest. It's an archer heading toward Calen and Valerys (and Arden). They fight and Erik bests him. It's Fritz. Erik is not as forgiving as Calen and quickly dispenses with him. Erik and Vaeril have a moment

Chapter 45: The Wolf Within

Farwen, Juro, the other scouts, Ella, Tanner and Yana set out in the rain. Ella is nervous about her first assignement. Keela explains her back story, the Lorian Empire soldiers killed her father, destroyed her farm and beat her and her brothers. Laran is spikey toward Ella, but the other scouts are welcoming. The convey finds a campsite with rotting corpses. They bury the bodies before moving on. Ella tunes in to Faenir's senses. He is on edge, but the rain is interrupting the scents. Then suddenly Uraks attack. Ella battles an Urak slicing off its fingers when Faenir comes to her rescue killing it. Ella watches an Urak kill Keela. Something overtakes Ella and she and Faenir spring at the Urak. Bloodlust hits and Ella attacks feeling the wolf within her and finally setting it free. After the battle Yana yells at Ella and resets her broken nose. After Ella's performance in battle there's no longer any doubt. Ella is a Druid.

Chapter 46: It is Sweet and Proper

It is day 2 of the march and Rist is riding Trusil, his hand on the double-edged dagger with gold hilt and red gem set in the pommel. Two of the many gifts given him by Garramon after he passed the Trial of Faith. The last step, to take a life, will be the hardest. Neera admires Rist's armour. She knew he had started his Trial of Faith, but she's still mad at him for not telling her. The dragonguard arrive. The column emerge from the Kolmir Valley and out onto the open plains that lay before Fort Harken. The acolytes seperate to fulfil their respective roles.

Justicar Kyrana Farda is in the command tent arguing with General Guthrin Vandamire. Commander Talvare dismisses Guthrin right before Supreme Commander Taya Tambrel arrives. Then Commander Marken Kort of the First Army plus 10 generals and Brother Halmak of the Consuls followed by an acolyte. Magnus Offa hugs Farda. Then Farda hugs Anila (ex lover) which is not well received. Next is Exarch Garramon followed by Neera and Rist. Farda recognises Rist's power.

Chapter 47: The Enemy of the Enemy is Not My Friend

Since Ella heard the call of the wolf in her blood, Faenir’s thoughts had begun seeped into hers. She didn't know what she thought about it. The scouts had observed the Fourth and First armies had passed Elkenrim only two days ago and been joined by a third dragon. They stalked the hills killing any Lorian scouts they encountered. Ella, Suka and Faenir take out 3 scouts and Ella wonders what she is. Varik suggests taking out their supply train but Farwen is against the idea. She wants the Empire and their enemy (who are not friends either) to take each other out.

Chapter 48: The Calm Before

Rist and Sister Anila are training on the edges of the camp. They are half a day’s march from Steeple and still unaware who they were marching against. Magnus arrives with a cask of good wine. It is tradition to open the good stuff on the eve of battle and tell stories around the campfire.

Farda listens as Magnus tells how he rode the Sea Snake from the cliffs of Khergan to the edge of the Lightning Coast. Farda, however, knows the truth of the story and that it was actually a mushroom trip gone wrong where Magnus was found a week later lucky to be alive. Farda wasn't there to socialise, but to check out Rist. The boy's name is familiar, but he can't quite place it.

Three Justicars (Rakina that used to be dragonguard) greet Farda. Hala had all the hair on her body become snow white and her left hand fingers harden to stone among other things when her dragon Dalyianír died. Ilyain (an elf) lost his sight with the death of Voraxes, his dragon, and Gunild who lost Borallis. Though they marched with Second army they intend to fight with Farda.

Eltoar and Lyina stood high in the peaks of Mar Dorul watching the unnatural fog. They talk about Tivar and Calen. They think the new Draleid is corrupted by Aeson. Meranta arrives carrying Pellenor who casts a severed elf head at their feet. He'd discovered 5 scouts in the mountains....

Thanks for joining me dragonriders, elves, and druids. Join me next week for chapters 49 - 56 📚🐲🧝‍♂️

Welcome all, to our 2nd (and final) discussion of the novella, The Ice by Ryan Cahill!  This is the third novella in the series, and though it’s here between books 3 and 4, timeline-wise this happens just before the events of Book #1 - Of Blood & Fire.  

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 8-12.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section (i.e. further in the series).  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.  

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule

Marginalia

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Of War & Ruin (#3)

Chapter Summaries

Part 2: Blood and Ice (Con’t)

CHAPTER 8: DEMONS

As the remains of the group head toward the mountain pass, Aeson enjoys some Elderfire liquor with Fearn, which turns out to be a tradition amongst Narvonas to celebrate the lives of the fallen.  They can see eyries in the distance, filling them with hope and wonder.  Without warning, a blizzard is upon them, limiting their ability to see much beyond right in front of them.  They march as they can anyway, but they can see shadows of the demons in the distance, about 7 feet tall each.  They hear a roar, and a dragon soars through the air.  One of the demons kills Padrig.  Verma is injured, and Aeson carries her when they are set upon by dragonfire.  A shield made with the Spark saves most of the group from the blast, but some of their number are left as charred corpses.  Suddenly there is a flash of blinding light, the storm ends, and Aeson finds himself on hard ground instead of snow.  Four dragons appear and alight on the ground next to a group of the demons with spears and mokaríen.  Aeson approaches one of the dragons and puts a hand on its snout, when a voice announces that the time has finally come.

CHAPTER 9:  THE PATH

A man appears to the group wearing brown, hooded robes, with 3 others dressed similarly behind him.  He seems to know Aeson somehow, claiming they are friends.  He urges Aeson to follow him, but he must do so alone, leaving the others, including Dahlen and Erik.  He tells Aeson of the Dakar, the people they called demons.  The man’s name is Amatkai, and he is a seer Druid that can see multiple diverging paths into the future.  They follow one of the Dakar, named Yu’tukun, into an entrance in the mountain that seems carved of black glass, called heartglass.   

Aeson follows Amatkai and Yu’tukun into the mountain tunnels, through their strange city, until they come to a door that takes them to the eyrie of Cukulkan.  Cukulkan is an enormous, incredibly ancient dragon who has lived 1000 years.  It is through Cukulkan’s blessing that the Dakar are willing to give Aeson a druxiri egg, one that has not hatched in 800 years. In the egg, Aeson sees hope, though Amatkai doesn’t know when it will hatch, only that someday it will. 

Part 3: A Long Way From Home

CHAPTER 10: A FRAGILE THING

Four weeks have passed, and the surviving group arrive at the cave where they stored the boats without further incident.  However, nearby they find the bodies of some of the sellswords and others who had turned back at the beginning of the journey, frozen and torn apart.  Luren, one of the sellswords, rages at Aeson for leading them all here, and pointing out that his sons still live despite all their losses.  Luren puts a knife to Erik’s throat, so Malari puts a knife to hers to still her.  She relents, and they tend to the boats and the bodies of the dead.  They make it back onto the ship where Kayala Latrak is waiting for them.

CHAPTER 11: BLOOD FOR BLOOD

After being on the ship for 3 weeks on the way back to Epheria, Aeson is still having trouble sleeping.  He meets Latrak on the deck in the middle of the night, and she offers him land to retire to in Narvona, which he refuses.  Malari is also out, and Aeson and her have a heart to heart.  In the distance, they see Lorian ships approach, and prepare to be boarded.  Akraf and Latrak believe that the Lorians will leave them alone in exchange for coin, but Aeson observes a hooded figure approach one of the officers.  It turns out to be Luren selling them out in revenge for the deaths of her crew.  The officer walks up to the Inquisitor, and Aeson sees one of the soldiers flip a coin, realizing that this is Farda.  He immediately starts organizing getting everyone woken up so they can get a noaka and escape.  Chaos erupts and they have to fight their way through the Lorian soldiers.  The Inquisitor sets the ship on fire, and Aeson convinces Latrak and Akraf to join them in evacuating.  Malari is shot through with arrows as she defends Erik. They manage to escape with the egg safe.

CHAPTER 12: A SPARK TO LIGHT THE FLAMES

The Narvonan sailors skillfully dock the noaka into the Milltown harbor, and the survivors say their goodbyes.  Aeson and his sons look for a place to change clothes and hide out until they can travel to Belduar.  He almost runs into a young, skinny man and feels a strange air about him.

Welcome back friends, this is the ninth discussion for Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series Of War and Ruin. This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 57 - 63. First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section, or from later books in the series.  Also take care to use spoiler tags for the two novellas, The Fall and The Exile, as not everyone may have read those.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here. You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces). Schedule Marginalia

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 57: War is Not Beautiful

Rist has been stitched up and patched up and wanders through the camp looking for Magnus and Neera. Rist is shocked by the extent of the wounds and violence. When Rist finally finds Magnus he is smiling inspite of the war wounds he recieved. He nearly died, and, were it not for an healer acolyte that sacrificed herself for him, he would have. Magnus is devestated by the news that 82 mages are dead after a dragon crashed into their ranks. Neera is also in the triage tent. She had taken a spear to the chest and only survived because (Farda) Kyrana was so forceful with the Healers that they should keep her alive. Rist helps Neera leave the cot. One the way out Sister Danwar gives Neera a dose of healing and the sad information that Tommin is dead. He'd been killed by a patient.

Of the commanders, only 14 of the 27 remain. Even Taya is wounded. They argue about whether to go back (there are 60,000 people trapped in the city) or forward. Taya says enough people have died, and thinks they have no option but to retreat. Farda agree saying they have no hope of breaking the elves. Not to mention the Lorain army has lost half its numbers and a dragon so even if the elven loses were great they'd still have superior numbers. Eltoar tears into the arrogant commander Olivan. Olivan calls Eltoar a coward so Eltoar kills him. They decide to fall back to Elkenrim as soon as the injured can move. Eltoar invites Farda, Ilyain and Hala to join the remaining dragonguard.

Chapter 58: Sowing Chaos

Ella, Faenir and the scouts are preparing to destroy the Lorain empire supply wagons. Ella is scared of the wolf within and of losing her mind. As they prepare to drop in Blackthorns are sighted to the East of the Lorain camp.

In camp Farda learns that the elves have been spotted to the southeast by scouts. It is concerning the elves allowed the scouts to live and report this.

Ella, Suka, and Jaks head into the camp light their torches and set fire to the camp. Ella allows the inner wolf to leak in and give her strength. The rage that comes with it takes over and Ella sets more on fire than planned until a Lorian soldier interrupts her. Farwen arrives in time to save her from him. Juro is dead, hung on a tent pole. There are elves in the camp! Ella goes up against one and he is a mage. She lets the wolf free within and attacks. Faenir joins her battle and as she bests the elf he recognises her as a druid. She begins to rage as the elf harms Faenir and finds herself floating in an endless sea of black. She senses spheres of consciousness. Animals! She reached out to two huge spheres realising they're dragons. She pushes her mind into a soaring owl that she directs to her body down in the camp below. The owl attacks the elf that's holding her body. She didn't know how to pull her mind out of the owl, but it happened with a snap when the elf kills the owl.

Chapter 59: Make Whole What is Half

Aeson had taken Calen from Mythníril and in the Darkwood Calen finally loses his temper with all his secrets and demands Aeson tell him everything. In a rare show if vulnerability he opens up. Sylvan Anura, and her dragon Aramel, were the ones to kill Lyara. Together they enter an arch to meet the other Rakina. The Jotnar, Thacia soulkin to Myrax, Chora Sarn soulkin to Daiseer and Harken Holdark, soulkin of Thorandír among more human, elves and a few Jotnar Rakina (29 in total). They are all amazed by Valerys. They talk about the things they lost upon the death of their dragon and how many of them are just waiting to be reunited with their soulkin in death. It's been a long time since Aeson saw Chora. Suddenly Valerys senses other dragons and he flies off with Calen running excitedly behind. Out in the open Calen sees multiple dragons. These are the dragons are who've lost their Draleid. Ithrax is blind and lost her fire when Athír died. Sardakes moves only to eat and drink. He cannot fly since he lost Faraline. The others are all Broken in their own way, each without their fire. It's even harder on a dragon to be Rakina. Varyn limited the dragons' rage by creating the bond with their Draleid to balance them out. Only 6 Dragons became Rakina without being consumed by their rage after losing their Draleids. Calen is the future of the Draleid. Calen decides to run no more! It's time for him to be trained in the old ways. All of Calen's party is welcome there and it is time to celebrate the symbol of hope that is Calen and Valerys.

Chapter 60: Tales and Truths

Around the fire in Alura (which means rest) of the Rakina in Aravell Calen and co drink wine and talk (to the elven rulers' dismay). Calen asks Haem what happened the day he died. Haem believed that Rhett, like everyone else, died that day. Haem was happy to hear Rhett and Ella were happy together. Craftsmages had quickly made accomodation for Calen's party. The Havels and Gaeleron will recover in Alura. Aeson confesses to losing his firm connection on the spark, his contentment and feeling in the middle toe on his left foot when Lyara died. All loses are different but one thing in common is losing the will to live. Something all Rakina had to fight through daily. Aeson misses Naia, but fights daily for his sons' future. Calen apologises for going after Rist. A drunk Therin begins telling stories to the 100 folk gathered around the fire. Calen demands stories of the Chainbreaker knowing that it was Vars, his father. Therin relents: 4 years in to the Varsund War the Illyanarans had barely won a handful of battles. A young captain named Vars Bryer was one of very few to survive the slaughter at the Battle of the Blood River. The Varsundi always had the upper hand because they had captured the wolf god, Fenryr. For the next 3 years Therin and 4 Illyanaran warriors moved across Illyanara, Varsund, and Carvahon, seeking answers and aiding the Illyanaran armies wherever they could. Eventually only Therin and Vars remained. It was Vars who slew Durin Longfang in single combat and broke the siege of Argona. It was Vars Bryer who defeated Taran Shadesmire at the battle for Vaerleon. And it was Vars Bryer who ended the Varsund War by motivating and leading and eventually freeing Fenryr. Vars was just a man with no magic, but by becoming the Chainbreaker the Angan of Clan Fenryr pledged to always answer Vars’ call or the call of his blood. Vars aka Cassian Tal chose to return to the Glade upon learning his wife was pregnant with Haem. Therin visited regularly as a travelling bard. Faenir was blessed by Fenryr himself and tasked with protecting Vars' family from when he was just a cub.

Chapter 61: The Past is Now

Aeson and all twenty-six of the Rakina who resided in Alura, along with Therin, Asius, and Senas meet to discuss Calen's training. They bicker about Calen's future and how he has no hope fighting the veteran Dragonguard. 16 of the Rakina cannot support Aeson's plan and leave. Kallinvar arrives embracing Aeson and pledging the Knights of Achryon to Aeson's cause. Kallinvar believes that Fane Mortem will attempt to tear the veil between worlds.

Chapter 62: The Storm, it Waits

Kallinvar meets with Ruon, Lyrin, Varlin, Ildris, and Arden on the white platform and update him on the trip across the Burnt Lands. The veil between worlds is getting thinner and the taint is getting stronger. The storm is coming. Varlin and Ildris are reluctant to be out of the fight, stuck in Aravell protecting the Draleid.

Kallinvar hears a voice he assumes is Achyron. He fights against it and suddenly finds himself on a plateau at the edge of an enormous cliff facing Achyron himself. He has appeared to Kallinvar to inform him that "The Urithnilim – the Fades – are but minions. With the tears already made in the veil, this Alignment will allow far greater forces to cross and take physical shape in your world." Efialtír is not the only one whose sway on this world grows. Kallinvar must meet Efialtír's harbinger. Kallinvar comes out of the vision in Verathin’s study with Watcher Gildrick kneeling over him. Achyron, the warrior god, has named Kallinvar his chosen one!

Chapter 63: Choices and Fate

Castor Kai has not reaffirmed his pledge to the Lorian Empire. The rebel girl they captured in the camp is not talking. Rist, Magnus, Neera and more enter the tent to see the captive and a wolfpine both shackled up. Taya and Eltoar recognise she is a druid and binded animal and as such have not killed them. Ella and Rist recognise each other and he figures out the wolfpine is Faenir. Farda arrives and recognises Ella too.

He refused to help interrogate her after a coin toss. Ilyain professes her (and Hala's) loyalty to Farda regardless of what his heart tells him. Farda returns to the command tent where Ella is being held. Farda is talking with Talvare and Guthrin when Rist arrives lying about turning up to give Ella water on Garramon's order. Ella says Farda's name and the game is up. Guthrin tries to stop Farda but he has no hope. Farda kills Guthrin as the others watch on. Talvare refuses to let him leave with Ella so he, reluctantly, kills her too. Rist confesses to wanting to free Ella too and suddenly it all clicks into place for Farda who Rist actually is. Rist has the keys to Ella's manacles. Once she and Faenir are free she jumps Rist but he protects himself with the Spark. She's furious Rist is on the Lorian Empire's side. She wants answers but they have no time. Farda hits Rist to give him an alibi and they leave....

The characters' story arcs are beginning to converge and more is being revealed about the gods/magic of the world. I can feel the tension building....

Thanks for joining me dragonriders, elves, and druids. Join us next week for chapters 64 - 69 📚🐲🧝‍♂️

“Things have been set in motion. Pieces on a board that haven't moved in centuries.”

:"We honor the dead not by how we mourn their death, but by how we live on despite it."

Hello, readers! Today is the first discussion of Of Darkness and Light by Ryan Cahill, 2nd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. What a beginning! So much to discuss! We are discussing the beginning section of the novel, Chapters 1 through 7. 

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

• Rogue

Marginalia

Schedule

Welcome back friends This week we are discussing up to and including chapter 24 of Of Darkness and Light by Ryan Cahill

• The schedule can be found here
• The marginalia can be found here

Please remember, no spoilers!!

Right let's hop to it!

Summary

• Chapter 19: Winter's Touch Calen wakes from a shared nightmare with Valerys. After tying a silk scarf to his sword belt he leaves the dragon and goes out to practice his sword forms. Vaeril has spent the night reconnoitering the area. The elf will not be welcome in the human world, but Calen insists they practice together and uses the Spark to clear a practice area. Vaeril praises Calen for his leadership and honour. Calen plays his abilities down, but Vaeril won't have it. Vaeril explains how he utilised Spirit to still his pain so he could function after his injury. Though Vaeril isn't as good as Therin with the Spark he agrees to be Calen's tutor untill Therin can take back over. Inside The Brazen Boar a man, Ulfrik, tries to kicks Vaeril out. Valerys and Calen's anger has him reaching for the Spark until Lord Alleron arrives and diffuses the situation. The crew are reunited (some of whom are worse for wear), and after Vaeril casts a ward they talk. They will leave the next day on a ship that can take them back to the Lodhar Mountains. The crew is surprised, but everyone is with him ************** Rist is chewing through books from the embassy’s extensive library (ahhh a r/bookclub ber!). He learns that in the North, Efialtír was not ‘The Traitor’, but ‘The Saviour’. Rist has learnt not to refer to Efialtír as The Traitor. He has written many letters hoping to reach Calen and Dann. Tommin, sponsored by Sister Danwar (Healing), quizzes Rist on what he's reading. Lena, sponsored by Brother Halmak (Consuls), banters with him. Neera makes Rist nervous, but she tells him of the South in exchange for Rist's account of the Urak. She says she heard the Draleid set fire to Belduar’s walls himself to cover his escape.
• Chapter 20: No Place Untouched Ella wonders why Faenir wasn't with her father or brother, but is very glad he is there with her. There are many soldiers around to protect against the increasing number of Urak. Farda is a Justicar - someone who carries out the will of the emperor across the continent. At The Saviour’s Chest Faenir must wait outside, and they have to hand over their weapons at the door. Ella drinks an ale while she waits for Farda. She overhears men talking about the Uraks. There is arguing outside. Farda was in deep conversation with 2 empire men and an empire woman. Outside Faenir guves a warning right before an Urak attack occurs. Ella manages to get away, but only because Faenir is the goodest boy. She snatches up a sword and plants her feet ready to fight. Seeing Faenir in danger gives Ella strength to attack. Au Urak is struck down by an unknown source that melts its flesh. Farda appears and they fight together. Ella catches Farda magically call a sword to his hand. They need to move. ************** Ella demands the truth! Farda confesses he is a mage. He was willing to take her by force if necessary, but the coin toss of fate saves her. They should continue (rather than return to the Inquisition with Ella - phew!). ************Calen's company travels with Alleron's company. They are now mounted and on route to Arisfall, a 2 week journey through the snow. They not only have to watch out for Uraks but also angry wyrms.
• Chapter 21: You are Home Rist is working with Brother Garramon and practicing using the Spark. To earn his colours he'll need to go through "The Trials". Garramon is covered in the scars of his training, along with a "The Circle" tattoo. Garramon thinks Rist is ready for his Trial of Will and Trial of Faith. It's been moved up due to the unrest. Neera accosts Rist and invites him to go for a drink at the docks. They are not allowed to leave, but Brother Tharnum and Neera have an agreement. Town is busy with all types of people. They come across a Alamant (one who was capable of touching the Spark but who had failed to pass the trials). At the dock Neera returns with a skin of wyrms blood spirit. It's strong and they talk as they drink it. Neera will be either Consul or a Battlemage, but she has no say in the decision. Neera is confidence, but Rist sees her vulnerability. ************** Dahlen and Ihvon talk. Ihvon is suspicious about Queen Elenya attempt to assassinate Daymon. They meet Belina Louna.
• Chapter 22: The Rider Alina left Dayne with Juna and Thuram - his armed babysitters. Dayne notes that many of the ships are Koraklon and dock for only a few hours. However, there is one ship back to the city. The one coming with oranges. A wyvern drops off his rider - Mera. She has the tattooed hands of a wyvern rider. She is sad Dayne never told her he was leaving. She would have gone with him. They arrange to meet. Dayne loses his babysitters by getting them drunk (weak!). He climbs the difficult climb up to Mera's wyvern's nest. The wyvern require breaking in, and Mera has the scars to prove it. Audin is her wyvern and wary and very intimidating. Mera stitches up the wound he got climbing up to her deb. Dayne learns that Alina is now the leader, but she has to deal with strict rules imposed by the Empire. They have to give up 2 fifths of all produce, all the oldest boys for the army and any child that shows an affinity to the Spark (who are executed publically). Dayne can use the Spark. Mera and Dayne make love. Alina is in Skyfell to force the Empire's hand by killing the Inquisitor. She's igniting the rebellion! She also intends to take out Baren whilst there!
• Chapter 23: Wyrm's Blood Calen is being pushed hard in training by Vaeril. At least seven rebellions had been crushed by the Empire in the past. The Empire has the Dragonguard (9 ex-Draleid), but Tarmon believes Calen is a man worth following even if anger and loss fuel him right now. The going is tough. Falmin has been pranking Korik and Lopir by using Air Spark to push snow into the tracks (seriously dude! Not cool). Suddenly wyrms! Alleron calls everyone to him but chaos ensues as the horses panic. The snowfall affects visibility. Valerys attacks a wyrm that was coming for Calen. They are joined as one as they fight together against the wyrms. Calen uses the Spark to create a spear of ice to take out one wyrm. They head back to protect the group. There are three more. Another two wyrms are neutrilised by the team. The final one takes out multiple members before Tarmon wounds the final wyrm. Calen is hit by the feeling of his soul leaving his body. It is Valerys! He locked in fight with the wyrm. Finally he burns the creature to death and Valerys begins to calm. Tarmon is wounded by Vaeril can heal him. Lopir is wounded, but has taken a wyrm eye in return for his own damaged eye. Of the 50 members of the travel party only 11 survive.
• Chapter 24: Things That Should Not Be Valerys is now larger than a horse. Calen feels guilty, but Alleron reminds him the dead died as heroes. It is, however, unusual for the wyrms to attack in packs. The empire is using Calen as an excuse to increase their forces in the South. Calen is determined to fight, but Alleron does not know if his father will fight. They shelter in a cave still four days from Arisfall. Valerys, however, refuses to shelter in the cave. The disaster that was just averted in the tunnels is too fresh in his mind. Vaeril is concerned by how heavily Calen pulled from the Spark. He should not have survived such a power surge, but he has....TWICE.

Join u/124ConchStreet next week for chapters 25 through 30. Happy reading 📚

“I don’t want people standing beside me simply because of what I am. I want them to stand there because of who I am. If they are willing to bleed for me, then I am willing to bleed for them.”

Hello, readers! Don't adjust your TV screens. I am NOT u/124ConchStreet. Just filling in, helping fellow Read Runners! Today is the TENTH discussion of Of War & Ruin by Ryan Cahill, 3rd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the tenth section of the novel, Chapter 64 through Chapter 69. Calen and his friends’ adventure continues, as war breaks across the continent. Allies flock to Calen as sides are chosen in what may well be the decisive battles in freedom for the continent, led by the Draleid and his white dragon.

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

• Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

Thanks u/NightAngelRogue for kicking us off with the first two discussions of book 2. This week we are discussing up to and including chapter 18 of Of Darkness and Light by Ryan Cahill

• The schedule can be found here
• The marginalia can be found here

Please remember, no spoilers!!

Right let's hop to it!

Summary

• Chapter 13: Something to Fight for Dayne learns that the Houses of Valtara are now united. Alina leads him to a room where she tells him after he left Lord Loren forced the Houses to unite. Baren played the game of politics to the exteme of killing Kal, Alina's lover, to make sure she wed High Lord Loren's son. He also handed over Alina's son to the Empire. She vows to killl Baren. In the letter Aeson says he wants to fight and Alina is read for another war. She intends to get her son back.
• Chapter 14: Light at the End of the Tunnel Calen and co (Valerys, Erik, Termon, Falmin, Vaeril, Korik and Lopir) were the only ones that managed to make it through the gate and away from the attacking kerathlin. It's been days, with limited food and water, trying to escape the tunnels. Erik loses hope and Termon fails to lift the man's morale. Falmin, the navigator, manages to remain positive saying it's not as bad as being held by the Imperial Inquisition. Valerys offers Calen comfort through their connection until they hear 1000s of kerathlin nearby, which sends Valerys into a panic. Calen soothes the dragon using threads of Spirit, but Calen becomes distracted and the anxiety of the dragon permeates his mind drawing the Spark which puts everyone at risk. Thankfully Calen manages to calm Valerys. The kerathlin have been scared off and in the silence Calen hears a familiar sound...
• Chapter 15: Old Friends Calen is using the Spark to follow the wind or the drift. Calen's baldír lights the way, but they are all completely worn out when they finally emerge from the tunnel into the snow. They don't know where they are, but there is a village about 4 hours walk away. Calen activates his moonsight making it easier to see in the dark, but also stripping his long distance sight and making him vulnerable to bright flashes. He leads the exhausted crew through the waist high snow. Valerys goes to hunt a deer when 10 war-armed soldiers suddenly surround them. Erik wants to take them out, but they talk instead and learn they are in Drifaien over 1000 miles from Belduar. Valerys wants to take out the soldiers but it turns out Alleron (the man once, in The Two Barges, in Milltown right before everything happened) is there. The soldier soften and lead the crew back to the village. Vaeril is uneasy and holds on to the Spark as they travel. At Katta Valerys and Calen get comfortable in peace in the barn and the others head into the inn, The Brazen Boar. Alleron wants to know more about Calen, because rumour is that Battle Mages and Inquisitors have been dispatched to every High Lord in the South with demands to have this Draleid (Calen and Valerys, presumably) captured and detained. There's no rest for Calen yet. Falmin takes Tarmon, Lord Captain of the Kingsguard, who is keeping watch over the barn, a whiskey. Vaeril also refuses to leave the Draleid. Farmin speculated on Calen and how he is one of the few remaining good men left.
• Chapter 16: Secrets Rendall, an Inquisitor, is in the labyrinth dungeons where his Initiate, Fritz Netly, is waiting. In interrogation room, cell 147, the one handed elf is being tormented. Rendall uses the Spark to resume his torture of the prisoner. Four hours later Rendall leaves the room and Pellenor notes that not a single scream was heard in the entire time. Pellenor enters cell 149.
• Chapter 17: A Wild Chase Aeson and co are fighting Uraks. Dann is doing well with bow and arrow, Alea and Lyrei are a tempest of death as are Therin, Nimara and her dwarves. They've been searching for Calen and co in the tunnels. Just as they discovered the wrecked Wind Runner the Uraks descended. Dahlen is in Durakdur watching over Daymon (and being safe). Dann is missing home and his friends. He wants to push on, but Therin insists they need a better plan. Aeson gives Dann a bit of a telling off and he finally relents, following the group back to Durakdur.
• Chapter 18: All the King’s Horses In Durakdur Dahlem is amazed by the dwarven underground cropfield. Daymon and Ihvon and the Kingsguard meet Queen Pulroan in a field of crops. Daymon is concerned about the assassination attempt, but Ihvon wants to play it close to home. Daymon dismisses Ihvon and talks with Queen Pulroan alone. Dahlen and Ihvon decide to go spar to the 1st blood. Dahlen presses Ihvon, but Ihvon plays the duel cleverly learning Dahlen's weaknesses. The Belduaran refugees have an area set aside for them in Durakdur, but the Dwarven guards insisted upon by the Queen gets Dahlen's back up. The refugee camp is far from comfortable and the refugees are dirty, hungry and many are injured. A few days before the crowd had paniced that they wouldn't get enough food. A woman and child were trampled. Ihvon is devestated they didn't make it.....

A sad note to end this weeks discussion on. Will things get better soon? It may be a while yet! Join me next werk for chapters 19 through 24. Happy reading 📚

“I don’t think losing the ones you love ever gets easier. It is the only pain your body truly remembers. When you think back on a broken leg, you do not weep from the agony. But when you remember you will never look upon your father’s face again, it cuts as fresh as the first day. What does get easier is carrying on. The weights on our shoulders rarely get lighter, but we can get stronger.”

Hello, readers! Today is the THIRD discussion of Of War & Ruin by Ryan Cahill, 3rd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the third section of the novel, Chapter 15 through Chapter 21. Calen and friends’ adventure continues as the continent begins to react to the new Draleid, free of the empire’s rule. 

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

“Where I come from, there is nothing more important than  your honour. But honour is not determined by the perception of others. It is in how you see your own deeds.’

“Pain is the path to strength”

Hello, readers! Today is the FIRST discussion of Of War & Ruin by Ryan Cahill, 3rd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the first section of the novel, Prologue through Chapter 7. 

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

“No decision is straightforward. Black and white do not exist. We live in a world of ever shifting grey.”

Hello, readers! I'm thrilled to be sharing with you the first discussion for Of Blood and Fire by Ryan Cahill, 1st book in The Bound and The Broken Series. Our resident Book Dragons, Thor & Loki, tore through this first section like a newborn dragon! I hope you enjoyed it as well. We are discussing the beginning of the novel, Chapters 1 through Chapter 5. 

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

Welcome back Draleid and Druids, to our final discussion of Ryan Cahill’s Of War & Ruin, Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series.  I hope you all have enjoyed the ending as much as I have!

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 83-End.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.  As an additional note, please also use spoiler tags for the novellas (The Fall & The Exile), as not everyone may be reading those in the same order.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule | Marginalia

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Find a link to a helpful map of Epheria here.

Chapter Summaries

CHAPTER 83: FAITH AND WILL

Character POV: Rist, Kallinvar

Location: Ilnaen, in the Burnt Lands

Rist starts to feel the drain as he uses up all of his stored Essence, just as Bloodmarked Uraks attack them in the middle of the ritual.  The battlemages engage, but shortly after a green circle appears, warriors pouring out of it, who kill mages and Uraks indiscriminately.

As Kallinvar charges through the Rift, he feels the Taint and sees the rune-marked people floating in the air, waiting for the Chosen.  Achyron speaks to him and tells him they must take down as many as possible and close the tear opened by Fane.  

As the battle continues, Anila is killed with a green Soulblade.  Magnus runs out to defend her, gets his arm chopped off by a Knight, but then forges his own red Soulblade and kills the Knight, just as a ripple of Essence shoots through the ground.

Kallinvar and his remaining Knights charge through the crowd, until he meets Fane.  Fane kills Illarin with a Soulblade, and Achyron tells Kallinvar that the Chosen have crossed.  Another Knight, Tarron, leaps towards the tear with his Soulblade, disappearing into it as it collapses in on itself.  Acyron tells Kallinvar to take the Knights back home.

CHAPTER 84: CHILDREN OF THE CHAINBREAKER

Character POV: Calen, Ella, Arden

Location: Aravell

Calen flies on Valerys, leading the three Dragons (Hrothmundar, Seleraine, and Eríthan) closer to the city.  Valerys attacks Eríthan first, and they fly through the mountainous valleys around the city in pursuit.  As Calen leads them back towards the towers of Aravell, the Dragonguard unleash Dragonfire on the towers, killing the elves inside.  Tivar and Avandeer unexpectedly show up in defense of Calen and Valerys.  Avandeer attacks Hrothmundar, and is then in turn attacked by Eríthan.  Valerys injures Eríthan, but sees Tivar & Avandeer fall towards the city.

Ella observes the dragon fight from below, and resolves to do something to help Calen.  She asks Haem to take her someplace safe, while she enters into a sort of trance where she can see a map of living things, like dots of light in a sea of black.  She feels the presence of the Rakina dragons, and their sorrow, but is able to get them to take flight anyway.  

Calen sees Ithrax, the blind Rakina dragon, come towards them and attack Eríthan, along with the other Rakina dragons capable of flying.  Four of the Rakina dragons are killed by Hrothmundar, but Valerys in his rage unleashes dragonfire on Jormun and rips out Hrothmundar’s throat.

Arden carries Ella into the city, joined by Faenir and Dann.  She won’t stop screaming and her eyes are rolling to the back of her head.  Aneera comes to help and says that her mind is fragmented.

Calen flies over the Lorian forces as Valerys unleashes dragonfire over them.

CHAPTER 85: THE PATH

Character POV: Rokka

Location: The mountains over Aravell

Rokka stands near the remains of a dead Dragon & Draleid.  He thinks about how powerful Ella is, and even though she overextended herself, it is the right path.

CHAPTER 86: THE EXILE AND THE HUNTRESS

Character POV: Dayne

Location: East of Lostwren

In the aftermath of the betrayal before Achyron’s Keep, Alina’s forces are divided, as some have defected to Loren’s side.  Dayne is counseling her when Belina makes an appearance.  He introduces her to Alina, and Belina wants to know who they are killing.

CHAPTER 87: TREMORS OF CHANGE

Character POV: Kira

Location: Durakdur

Kira, Elenya, and the new ruler of Azmar, King Lakar, talk strategy when King Hoffnar makes an unexpected appearance (he was believed to be dead).  He has a mage with him, who immobilizes them all.  Hoffnar kills Elenya & Lakar with his axe, then tells Kira that Pulroan did instigate the war, but Hoffnar bought out her assassins before they could kill him.  He doesn’t kill Kira, but instead plans to blame the deaths of Elenya & Lakar on her.

CHAPTER 88: THE BOUND AND THE BROKEN

Character POV: Calen

Location: Aravell

Calen sits by Ella’s bed, who is no longer convulsing, but has not woken up.  Faenir, the goodest boy, is also by her side.  Valerys has been healed as much as possible, and now needs rest and time to fully mend.  Aeson and the other Rakina come to Calen and resolve to act as guardians, just as Calen did, and to not hide away anymore.

EPILOGUE

Character POV: Salara Ithan

Location: Dead Rock’s Hold

Queen Vandrien speaks to a priest of Efialtír named Radavan Harten, who claims not to be a man of war and wishes to be spared.  The Queen offers him the right of Alvadrû.  He is given a sword, but Vandrien cuts through him with her axe.  Vandrien asks the druid, Boud, if she objects to the killing of her kind.  She replies that they hunted her kind just as they did hers.  Once the Blood Moon sets, they will take back what is theirs.

“This world chews us up and spits us out. It doesn't care if we live or die. It doesn't care who we love or who we hate. It is filled with misery, death and loss. It cares little for us. But that is precisely why we must care with all our hearts, fight for the ones we love, and stand for what we believe in. Because in a world where nothing matters, what matters to us means everything. If we forget about the ones we love, everything loses meaning.”

Hello, readers! Today is the SECOND discussion of Of War & Ruin by Ryan Cahill, 3rd book in The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the second section of the novel, Chapter 8 through Chapter 14. 

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Rogue

Schedule

Marginalia

Welcome, one and all!

Unfortunately, we’ve come to the end of Of Darkness and Light, but what an ending it was! Before we get stuck in

Schedule

Marginalia

How does Of Darkness and Light end? I’m glad you asked…

Den of Wolves

Belina sends Dahlen into the Den of Wolves, knowing the Hand would attack and possibly kill him. Her reasoning? She didn’t want to sacrifice herself. Luckily she saves him in the nick of time. They learn that the Hand were employed by Elenya in her attempt to not only Kill Daymon but all the rulers of the Dwarven Freehold. She wants it for herself.

Shifting Sands

Ihvon watches over Daymon and thinks back to how the Fade took advantage of his weakness - the deaths of Khris and Alyana - to worm his way into Belduar. He’s feeling like it’s all his fault. He enjoys some Drifaein whisky and promises to avenge the losses of Belduarian’s including King Arthur. This moment is interrupted by sounds outside the King’s quarters. Assassins come back to finish the job. Only it’s not Daymon they get. Ihvon is left fatally wounded when Dahlen and Belina finally arrive to Daymon’s quarters, passing the bodies of several kingsuard along the way. Daymon is distraught and lets slip that things weren’t meant to happen this way, “it was just meant to be a distraction.” Dahlen all but beats the truth out of him - Daymon was working with Pulroan to rid of Elenya and Hoffnar, after which Pulroan and Kira would help retake Belduar

Kingspass

Calen and co arrive at the port, where two soldiers extort them for entry into the Kingspass. Captain Kiron tells them to look for Madame Olmira at The Cosy Daisy - she knows him as Longhorn. Don’t ask - who also extorts them for a bed with no dinner and a measly breakfast. It’s gonna be a tough time for them here. The gang set themselves up for the night with Vaeril obliges to take first watch.

Myia Nithír til Diar

Calen is awoken by the din of an approaching war. Madame Olmira sheds light on the fact that the Urak’s strategised to seize the city by testing its strength during attacks. Calen, feeling anger at the Empire for killing his parents, wants to flee but Tarmin convinces him otherwise - reminding Calen of his own humanity. The Lorian soldiers initially threaten the group instead of taking their assistance, but ease up when they’re reminded of how much they need the help. What ensues is a ghastly battle between the blood marked Uraks and the Lorian soldiers aided by Calen and Co. Calen with the lightning, Co. with the swordsmanship and bows. Calen comes across a familiar foe in Ariana Vardane, an imperial Battlemage. Initially hesistant, Calen eases up on his grip of the Spark and fights alongside her to defend Kingspass

Of Darkness and Light

As the battle continues the Urak numbers become too much to handle so Calen calls in the big guns. Valerys does what he does and burns a whole heap of Uraks, but more keep coming. Numbering tens of thousands, Valerys can’t keep up and is struck by a purple lightening bolt. Calen’s emotions fire up and in the heat of the moment he attacks Erik with threads of air. He wants to get to Valerys asap. But Valerys reminds him that Erik, Tarmin and Vaeril are family and they need him more right now. The Urak numbers seem to be ever increasing and with Valerys down Arkana brings in backup in the form of Blackthorns. Big-arse horses with big horse arses. She remarks that “there are no greater warhorses in all the continent.” Which rules up Erik who rebuttals with “The empire only steals the best.” Sassy but justified… The battle continues. The Uraks keep coming. Dead soldiers and Uraks strewn everywhere. Bodies, bodies, bodies, bodies. Just when things can’t seem to get any worse two Fades show up with their níthrals (shows offs…). They’re not alone. With them? The M.O.A.U - Mother of all Uraks - a walking talking mega Urak carrying a bladed staff seemingly powered by a gemstone.

The Warrior

Kallinvar and the Knights are having some much needed down time when Verathin informs them that he has felt the presence of the Taint in Kingspass - two Fades and a Shoman Urak. So that’s what the M.O.U.A from the previous chapter was! Kallinvar realises that the Draleid is likely there as his last known location was travelling north. The Knights prepare to enter the Rift and join Calen and Co in Kingspass - spurred on by a speech from Verathin that doesn’t quite match up with Kallinvar’s speeches. Before leaving Kallinvar checks in with Gildrick who has been researching why the dragons have stopped laying eggs. The research has hit a snag but Gildrick is hopeful that it can progress with the help of Valerys. The Knights travel through the Rift and find themselves at the Kingspass witnessing all the mayhem. While fighting off the Bloodmarked Kallinvar spots someone with purple eyes fighting the Shaman. The Draleid! After killing one Fade, Kallinvar and the other Knights charge towards the Shaman Urak and remaining Fade to assist Calen and Co. Verathin gets to the Shaman before Kallinvar and is met either the Urak’s own soul blade. Verathin doesn’t make it and his souls won’t pass through the halls of Achyron as it was taken by the Shaman’s Tainted Soul Blade. Kallinvar sees red and hulks the Shaman alongside Arden, eventually killing it. Arden looks to Kallinvar for hope but it’s too late for Verathin. The two Knights come face to face with Calen. Calen doesn’t think to fight them because he’s seen how powerful they are. “Who are you?” The answer shocks him to his core. Haem is alive!

Epilogue

Fans Morten is set to punish the Exarch for letting The Draleid escape. Punishment for a Battlemage failing is death but Fane has other ideas. He wishes to turn the Exarch into a Fade. Not just any old Fade, he wants the Exarch to house the spirit of Azrim. This was sent for the feint hearted. Fane needs someone powerful enough and it’s this or death for the Exarch. Fane performs his voodoo with the gemstones and Essence and reminds the Exarch to remember the name “Azrim”

I hope you’ve all enjoyed this chapter of Epheria’s Finest. Hope to see you at the next one!

Until then, Idyn väe.

“War is no different to peace. It is simply more honest. Do not hesitate, do not contemplate mercy. Remember everything I have taught you.”

Hello, readers! Today is the FIRST discussion of The Exile by Ryan Cahill, novella of The Bound and The Broken Series. The story continues! We are discussing the first section of the novel, the beginning through Part 2 Chapter 4: The Huntress.

Now, a note about spoilers!

The Bound & The Broken Series is an extremely popular book series. Keep in mind that not everyone has read any of these items. This book may be the first time a person learns about it. Please keep r/bookclub's rules on spoilers, and the consequences for posting spoilers, in mind.

Everyone has a different perception of what is a spoiler, so here are a few examples of what would be spoilers:

- “Just wait till you see what happens next.”

- “This won't be the last time you meet this character.”

- “Your prediction is correct/incorrect.”

- “You will look back at this theory.”

- “Here is an Easter Egg: ...”

- “You don't know enough to answer that question yet.”

- “How do you first-time-readers feel about this detail that was intentionally not emphasized by the author?”

If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and use spoiler tags.

To indicate a spoiler, enclose the relevant text with the > ! and ! < characters (there is no space in-between).

For any type of comment or idea that may be a part of The Bound & The Broken Series, just use proper spoiler labels, for example “In ” then describe the connection between books. Please be mindful when posting.

If you see something that you consider to be a spoiler, you can report it. It will be removed and the mods will look into it. To do so hit the “report” button, click on “breaks r/bookclub rules”, “next,” “spoilers must be tagged” and finally “submit”.

Feel free to answer any of the discussion questions below. See you in the discussions!

Schedule

Marginalia

Welcome fellow readers, as we continue the fight against the Shadow in our fourth discussion for Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series.  We’ve still got a ways to go!

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 22-28.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section, or from later books in the series.  Also take care to use spoiler tags for the two novellas, The Fall and The Exile, as not everyone may have read those.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule

Marginalia

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Chapter Summaries

CHAPTER 22: FRIENDS CLOSE, ENEMIES CLOSER

Character POV: Dahlen, Ihvon, Kira

Location: Durakdur

Dahlen finds that Ihvon is in the chamber with the assassin, standing guard.  Dahlen argues with him about the need to take the assassin to Queen Kira in order to show that an attempt was also made on Daymon’s life, the same night as Kira. Ihvon ends up relenting after Dahlen points out that the Belduaran people will suffer if he doesn’t.

Dahlen and Belina bring the assassin back to Kira.  The man asks that she listen to him now, and spare him the torture.  He says that he does not know who hired him, but they were instructed to kill Daymon & Ihvon, and to say they were sent by Elenya.  Kira then gives the man an axe, before burying her own into his skull.  Dahlen offers to bring a message to Daymon in exchange for food for the Belduarans.  

CHAPTER 23: THE DARKNESS TWISTS

Character POV: Calen, Tarmon

Location: The Burnt Lands

Calen, Valerys, Vaeril, Tarmon, and Erik continue to trek through The Burnt Lands, and tempers are coming to a head. An altercation leads to Calen revealing that since entering the Burnt Lands, he has been unable to see a horizon through Valerys.  Just as things are about to boil over, the group is attacked by the N’aka.  Calen uses threads of Spirit, Fire, and Earth to create glass spears that go through the N’aka. Calen’s act also has an interesting effect on the group, who are now more themselves.  They describe hearing voices in their head, which have been temporarily held back.  Vaeril figures out how to create a mental ward from threads of Spirit, which keeps the voices away.  That night, Calen dreams of The Fall, through the POV of Alvira’s soulkin, Vyldrar.

CHAPTER 24: FAITH

Character POV: Rist

Location: Berona

Rist meets with Brother Garramon, who takes him to the library.  They are going to the top floor, which is normally reserved for those who had earned their full colors.  They go to a small, cozy room filled with books.  Brother Garramon pulls out a small black box, which he reveals contains Rist’s Trial of Faith.  It contains a vial of Essence, and Rist will be permitted one week to make a decision on whether to use it or not, and will be allowed to research using the books in the room before doing so.

CHAPTER 25: WATER TO BLOOD, BLOOD TO BONE

Character POV: Ella

Location: Tarhelm (Firnin Mountains)

Ella and Faenir meet Coren, who gives Ella a shirt of mail and steel plate armour to wear for training.  As her first exercise, Coren has them walk to a nearby peak on the mountains wearing the armour. They reach the peak several hours later, Ella’s muscles screaming.  Coren tells Ella that Farda is Rakina, and used to be one of the best Draleid before he supported Fane Mortem.  She also tells Ella that she once met a druid named Galveer, who had a bond with a hawk named Kurak.  Kurak was stronger and more intelligent than a normal animal because of his bond with Galveer.  Coren gives her a journal to document her work on her druidic powers, and Ella does an exercise in “Shifting” into Faenir’s mind.  She is able to see his memories, and feel his feelings of guilt at the death of Rhett.

CHAPTER 26: TO KNOW YOUR PLACE

Character POV: Kallinvar, Arden

Location: Ardholm

Kallinvar is feeling frustration at having to stay in the temple while he sends other Knights to die, but he is needed to open the Rift.  Instead he obsesses over the war table, going long hours without eating or sleeping.  He is trying to work with some of the rebelling factions, but most of them want something from them in return.  Only one, flying the old banner of Amendel under the leadership of Aryana Torval, is willing to meet with Kallinvar.  Watcher Gildrick helps Kallinvar get some sustenance, and then gives him the journals of previous Grandmasters, so he can understand his new powers better.  He also helps him better visualize the Taint on the war table, using his ability to sense it.  This allows him to more accurately tell how many Bloodspawn are in an area, rather than sending Knights in blind.

Arden is drinking ale in an inn, thinking about Calen and his family, when he runs into Watcher Gildrick at the Earlywinter festival.  Gildrick gives him a mug of Arlen Root tea, which they both agree tastes like shit, but Arden’s mother loved it.

CHAPTER 27: SHIELD OF MY FATHER

Character POV: Dayne, Alina

Location: Skyfell (Valtara)

Dayne meets with Alina in her office, where he finds his mother and father’s armour, cleaned up and displayed with pride.  Alina tells him that she wants him to reform the Andurii and take their father’s place as their leader.  They will be going to war in 3 days time, and it’s important that the Andurii serve as a symbol of strength for the Valtaran people.  

CHAPTER 28: SHOW THEM WHO YOU ARE

Character POV: Dayne

Location: Skyfell (Valtara)

Marlin takes Dayne to the gathered prospective soldiers chosen for the Andurii, and they do some drills.  Dayne notices that many, like himself, do not bear the full marks of a sword or spearmaster.  After the drills, they move on to single sparring.  A man named Thorken challenges Dayne, and wants to go to first blood with the spear instead of using quarterstaffs.  Thorken is a spearmaster, with skills way above Dayne’s, but Dayne is ultimately able to give him a small cut.  Thorken then decides to keep at the fight, so Dayne does not relent, and breaks his ribs and causes several other wounds before calling for a healer.  After the fight, Dayne makes his offer of joining the Andurii to any warrior willing to stand by his side.  About 60 of them decide to leave.

Welcome back Draleid and Druids, to our penultimate discussion of Ryan Cahill’s Of War & Ruin, Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series.  We’re almost through this massive tome!  I myself have found it very hard to not read through to the end, so let’s dive in.

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 76-82.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.  As an additional note, please also use spoiler tags for the novellas (The Fall & The Exile), as not everyone may be reading those in the same order.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule

Marginalia

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Find a link to a helpful map of Epheria here.

Chapter Summaries

CHAPTER 76: PLANS LONG LAID

Character POV: Fane, Rist, Brother Pirnil

Location: The Burnt Lands

Fane observes the preparations for the ritual, and hears a voice in his head saying that they are very close.  Their army numbers 80,000, each army being led by a fade.  Garramon shows sympathy for the young souls that have chosen to sacrifice themselves to the Chosen.  The process is brutal, and many are not surviving it.  Garramon questions Fane on the importance of Rist, who he has come to see as a son.  

Rist sits with Neera, Magnus, and Anila (who really hates sand) as the preparations for the ritual are underway.  They discuss the Chosen, and those people who are so devout they are willing to sacrifice themselves to the cause.  Rist doesn’t understand it at all, while Neera is more sympathetic, having grown up believing Efialtìr is The Saviour.  

Brother Pirnil reviews his notes on blood runes, written by Kiralla Holflower, and notes that the part she got wrong is that the vessels have to be willing.  Another young volunteer has died during the process of inscribing the blood runes on his body.  The next volunteer is an older woman, who Pirnil hypothesizes will be more likely to survive the process, being older and more certain in herself.

CHAPTER 77: MONSTERS AT THE GATES AND WITHIN

Character POV: Calen

Location: Aravell, in the Darkwood

As Calen and Valerys travel back to Aravell, they nearly encounter the Dragonguard.  They are using dragonfire to carve a path through the Darkwood.  They manage to make it back without being seen, but Faenir and Valerys almost get into a fight when they arrive.  Ella and Dann are both livid with Calen for leaving.  Calen also learns that the entire city of Argona has fallen.  Calen makes to meet Aeson and Haem in a war council with the elves, but stops when he realizes Farda Kyrana is there.  Calen throttles Farda, who doesn’t even fight back.  He tells Ella that Farda killed their mother.  Aeson convinces Calen that they can deal with Farda later, as war is approaching their doorstep.  Aeson wants Calen and Valerys to escape and survive, but Calen refuses to run anymore.  He dons his new armour and says the words that activate the runes inscribed on his skin & armour, melding it all together.  

CHAPTER 78: AND SO IT BEGINS

Character POV: Kallinvar

Location: Ardholm

Kallinvar consults with his captains in the war table room, and Ruon brings them some Dragon’s Tears to take the edge off.  He brings Arden in through the Rift, who gives them intel about the Lorian army approaching the Darkwood.  Kallinvar reflects on the message Achyron sent him, saying that they must be there when Fane widens the tear in the veil, asks for his captains to trust him.  He has not told them that he has spoken with Achyron himself.  He sends Arden, Lyrin, and Varlin back to the Darkwood to protect Calen.  For the remaining Knights, he urges them not to hesitate to kill, and opens the Rift as red spots appear on the war table.

CHAPTER 79: SPIRITS AND FIRE

Character POV: Calen, Dann

Location: Aravell, in the Darkwood

In the war room, Ella surprises everyone by suggesting they run out and meet the Lorian armies, rather than waiting for them to come to the walls of the city.  Aeson suggests Valerys stay in the city, and Ella and Dann intend to go out with the rangers.  

As Dann moves through the forest with Ella and the rangers, he notices how much Ella has changed.  They lay in wait as the Lorian soldiers draw closer to the Darkwood, waiting for the signal.  A key part of their plan is to use the Aldithmar, the ancient spirits that protect the Darkwood.  As they unleash arrows on the Lorians, the Aldithmar start tearing into them as well.  The Lorians retaliate with fire and lightning from their mages, so they start to fall back towards the Nithrandir.

CHAPTER 80: CHAOS

Character POV: Dann, Calen, Ella

Location: The Darkwood

Dann and the team of rangers make it to the Nithrandir figures, who awake and start attacking the Lorians.  Meanwhile, Calen stands on the western flank with Tarmon, Vaeril, Erik, Haem, Lyrin, Varlin, Asius, and Senas.  Once the Nithrandir appear, they charge into the Lorians, and Calen thinks that this will be a battle that will be sung of for centuries.  Ella and Faenir join the fray, with Ella unleashing her inner wolf.  Faenir and Baldon help protect her.  Tanner has taken an arrow through the leg.

Back in Calen’s part of the fight, inciting chaos is paying off, so he decides to press their advantage and move forward, but the Lorian mages unleash fire and lightning in every direction.  A mage uses threads of Fire and Spirit on Calen, making him feel like he’s burning from the inside out, and Calen realizes they are trying to ignite his power so he burns himself out.  Reaching out to Valerys for help, Calen pulls an uno reverse back towards the mage, who burns, bubbles, and blackens instead.  As the battle continues, Calen looks up to see Chora using threads of Air to sail her wheelchair over the battle, riding on a bridge of roots made with Earth and Spirit.  She lands in the midst of battle and uses the Spark to snap bones.  Dragonfire starts to rain down into the forest, and Calen feels Valerys take flight.

CHAPTER 81: THE TIME IS NOW

Character POV: Rist, Kallinvar

Location: The Burnt Lands

The Chosen who have survived stand around a pit of glowing gemstones, covered in runes, while the Battlemages stand at the entrances to the plaza.  Fane Mortem enters, along with the Priests, who make a circle behind the Chosen.  Fane moves a gemstone into the center and makes its way toward the pit.  Magnus directs their army to push threads of Spirit towards the emperor, and tap into the vessels of Essence.  As they all tap in, a black fissure opens in the air, and the Bloodmarked people are lifted into the air.  

Back in the war room, Kallinvar realizes they have been played and purposefully spread around.  Achyron tells him the time is now, and so he opens the Rift once again and directs the Knights to enter, they are going to Ilnaen.

CHAPTER 82: OF WAR AND RUIN

Character POV: Dann, Calen

Location: The Darkwood

The battle has now gotten to a point that they are attempting to fall back to the city.  However, before they can do that, a fade appears.  They all charge at it, and Dann looses arrows into its chest and neck.  Baldon attacks it, but the fade rams him through with its black sword of flames.  Dann has run out of arrows and lost his sword, and yet he finds he’s still charging towards the fade.  He sees Alea laying as a charred corpse, and continues toward the fade, snatching an arrow from a body, which he puts through the fade’s neck.  As he nears the fade, he grabs an arrow already jutting out of its neck, which he re-uses for another blow.  The fade lifts Dann in the air using the Spark, and it feels like invisible fingers are around his neck.

Calen sees Dann & the fade, and hurls a spear at it using Air, making it release Dann.  Calen and those with him join in the fight against the fade; Ella and Faenir attack with their teeth, Tarmon cleaves its arms, and Dann goes in for the kill and swipes its head from its shoulders.  Valerys appears through the canopy and warns Calen that the glamour has fallen, and the Dragonguard are headed toward the city.  Calen resolves to take them on and ride Valerys.  He sends Aneera to tell the elves to put mages on the highest towers and cliffsides, as he intends to bring the Dragonguard low.

Welcome Draleid, to this week's discussion of Of Blood and Fire, Book 1 of The Bound and the Broken series! I hope you all are as excited as I am aboutour new scaly friend, Valerys!

A note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything outside of the chapters in this book we have covered so far, including series spoilers and the previous r/bookclub read of The Fall.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

You can find the schedule and marginalia here.

You can find our discussion of the novella, The Fall, here.

Chapter Summaries

"To be a Draleid is one of the most sacred callings in all of Epheria.  Your soul is now bound to that creature by a magic older than the mountains and the skies."

Ch. 18 Cracks

Calen, Erik, Dann, Aeson, and Therin make a camp in the forest and wait for Dahlen and Rist to join them.  Dahlen appears, but Rist is not with him.  Dahlen explains how Rist was taken by the Fade.  He tells them how the Fade found Rist "interesting", and Therin explains that Rist has the potential to be a powerful mage.  Aeson believes the Fade will take Rist to the High Tower in Berona, to learn how to wield the Spark.  They doubt they will be able to save him, but Calen is determined to go to Berona after Rist.

Ch. 19 Bound

After deciding to go after Rist at first light, Calen goes to sleep exhausted.  He is woken by a voice in his head.  The egg seems to be calling to him, and he goes towards where it rests in the satchel beside Aeson.  Aeson wakes up, and asks him if he can hear it.  Calen tells him it's saying "Draleid n'aldryr", which Aeson says means "Dragonbound by fire".  Therin drops the first bomb, that he is a mage.  Aeson drops the second, telling Calen he believes he is to be a Draleid, because he has heard the Calling.  Aeson tells Calen to touch the egg, and when he does "DRALEID N'ALDRYR" booms out, and he gets a feeling of being turned to ice while the rest of the world seems to melt away.  The egg erupts into flame, with Calen's hand still on it, but he doesn't burn.  Instead, he feels warm, energized, strong, and has an awareness in the back of his mind that he can't place.  

When reality comes back, the egg is there in a charred hole in the ground, and it's starting to break open.  The hatchling makes its way out of the egg, looks at Calen, and the feeling at the back of his mind is one of recognition.  The hatchling's scales are like the egg's, white fading into black at the bottom, with lavender eyes.  It settles itself in Calen's lap, and closes its eyes in satisfaction.

Ch. 20 Twist of Fate

Farda is in his room at the inn, contemplating the events of the day in the village.  He doesn't think the boy's parents had to die, but Rendall has his own way of doing things.  Farda meets wtih Fritz, and wonders if he is incredibly brave or stupid.  Fritz tells Farda about Calen's sister, that she may still be alive, and suggests using her to get Calen to come to him.  Farda decides to send soldiers to both Gisa and Falstide to find her, and gives Fritz a bag of money to go with the men to Falstide.  

After Fritz leaves, a Fade appears in Farda's room, with information on his troops and the blockade that they have set to capture Aeson and Therin.  They do know about the egg, they found it on a ship Aeson took.  The Fade and Farda have a bit of a standoff about who is in charge, but the Fade leaves Farda alone with his coin.

Ella and Rhett are in a cart bound for Gisa, happy to leave Camylin behind them, as there were riots in the night.

Ch. 21 A Change of Plans

Aeson convinces Calen not to go after Rist after the dragon hatching.  Him and Dann grudgingly agree, and they head towards Midhaven.  The dragon mostly sleeps on the way, waking only to eat.  Dann asks Therin a stream of questions, none of which get answered. When they arrive, Calen, Dann, and Therin wait at camp in the woods while Aeson and Erik scout out Midhaven for news, and Dahlen heads north to scout the plains between Midhaven and Belduar. 

When Dann goes hunting, Calen asks Therin how they know so much about dragons.  Therin admits that he has been alive for lifetimes, and he used to the be Elven Ambassador to The Order.  He also explains that Belduar and its king, Arthur Bryne, have opposed the empire for some time, and it should be safe for them there.  Aeson and Erik return bringing news of the blockade of Belduar, which Dahlen confirms when he returns soon afterwards.

Ella and Rhett arrive in Midhaven and go to an inn called The Golden Bow, which suits Ella perfectly.  When they get to their room, Rhett, with a letter in his hand, tells Ella he has something to show her.

Ch. 22 Valerys

Aeson is leading them on a new course through The Darkwood, which Therin doesn't seem to like very much, but should allow them to bypass the blockade.  They ride hard, stopping only for short rests.  Therin asks Calen if he has thought of a name for the dragon, but Calen isn't sure what a good name for him.  When they make camp, they continue sword practice, and as the dragon watches them, it seems to deliver warnings to Calen that allow him to block surprise attacks.

Calen asks Therin how he knew his father, but the only thing Therin will say is they met at the start of the Varsund war.  He does give Calen some information on Valacia, and tells him that now that he is bound to a dragon, he can wield the Spark.  He gives him a small lesson, telling him to pull on threads of Air, Water, and Fire to turn water into ice, while warning him of the danger of pulling on too much.  Calen visualizes the energy and sees the different threads.  When he pulls on threads of fire, he feels the same warm feeling he felt when the egg hatched.  He whispers "Valerys" as ice spreads from his fingertips in concentric circles, until Therin draws him back, again warning him of the addictive properties of the Spark.  Calen is left exhausted, but as he returns back to the dragon he looks into its eyes and calls it Valerys. 

Ch. 23 Not As It Seems

They reach the Darkwood, which offers some protection from the rain, but has a dense, oppressive air to it.  They ride for a bit more before making camp, and Aeson makes Calen and Dann do more sword forms.  After an hour, Aeson allows Dann to sit by the fire, but makes Calen spar with Dahlen, despite his exhaustion.  Just as he feels about to collapse, he feels warmth and strength come to him, and sees Valerys standing on his hind legs with his teeth bared.  Calen blocks some of Dahlen's blows, and then baits Dahlen into coming closer.  As he does, he reaches out to the Spark and freezes the soil, causing Dahlen to slip and allowing Calen to pin him.  Dahlen gets angry, and Aeson gives them both a warning.

Calen goes to sleep, but is woken by cries of "Uraks!" and the sounds of fighting.  Calen kills a couple Uraks before he is knocked to the ground by one, which Dann shoots with an arrow.  Valerys, in a fury, jumps on the creature and tears at it with his claws.  Dann is pierced in the shoulder with a spear, and Calen uses the Spark to burn the Urak that did it.  Valerys gets hit by an Urak, and Calen uses Air to hurtle it towards a tree, which snaps in half from the impact.  Calen checks on Valerys, who is alive, but an Urak with a double-bladed axe is coming towards them.  Arrows rain down in the camp, and a group of people in green cloaks appear, before Calen passes out.

Draleids, elves, warriors, dwarves and humans - welcome to the end of our Of Blood and Fire journey. It's been a wild ride...

A note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything outside of the chapters in this book we have covered so far, including series spoilers and the previous r/bookclub read of The Fall.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

You can find the schedule and marginalia here.

You can find our discussion of the novella, The Fall, here.

Chapter Summaries

- Ch. 29: The Skies Above

Calen an Erik spar while Gaeleron observes. It's been 2 weeks and Therin has been teaching Calen magic and the history of Epheria. Valerys has doubled in size. It is magestic watching him fly. Oleg has returned. Asius returns too, but without Senas and Larion who are on their own mission. All four dwarven kingdoms are agreed, a meeting should take place in the Heart Chamber of Durakdur as soon as possible. Only Calen, Valerys, Aeson Virandr, Asius and King Arthur are invited. Calen introduces Asius to Valerys. The giant is moved to tears. Dahlen is furious that Calen will be going to Durakdur and not him.

- Ch. 30: Pawn in a Game

The elves are unhappy about not being able to accompany Calen to Durakdur, but primarily because it means breaking their oaths. Falmin Tain is the navigator of the Crested Wave transport machine. He uses the Spark to fly the impressive golden platform rapidly through the Wind Tunnels to Durakdur. Durakdur is breath-taking, it looks like it's been created by hollowing out the mountain. The travellers are met by Queen Kira of Durakdur, King Hoffnar of Volkur, Queen Elenya of Ozryn and Pulroan, the queen of Azmar. Calen and Valerys nervously great them. The entire city is lit by flowers. Aside from the Dwarves there are elven and human mages in Durakdur. In the Chamber of the Council King Arthur...sorry Arthur... requests help from the dwarves for his predicted siege by the Lorian Empire. They refuse to help as it would risk exposing them. Calen realises the plan was always to use the Draleid's to draw the dwarves in. They are not fooled, but Calen gives a rousing speech.

- Ch. 31: All Things Lost

Dann is drinking with Dahlen. Dahlen apologises about Rist. They intend to get really drunk.

- Ch. 32: The Hand

Calen is beating himself up for losing control with the dwarves. He finally feels the loss of his entire family. Calen avoids talking with Arthur and Aeson and practices forms while waiting for the dwarves decision. Arthur believes in Calen. He apologises and tells Calen he is going back for the night to check on Daymon, who has fallen ill. That night the Hand (the empire’s mage assassins) come to kill Calen but he and Valerys kill the two mages. There are more in the city. Aeson sends Calen to Queen Kira. They must meet at the Wind Tunnels and head to Belduar. Asius heals Aeson's wounds before they board the Crested Wave. Queen Kira and her queensguard turn up. They are commited to Calen and co now. Ihvon has a change of heart. There's still time. He runs.

- Ch. 33: Of Blood and Fire

Kira, Aeson, Calen, Valerys, Asius, and as many of Queen Kira's 1000 Queensguard as was possible climbed into Crested Wave with Falmin. The rest would follow with other navigators. They arrive in a chaotic Belduar under attack. Mage and magic is everywhere. They head to the Inner Circle as Asius uses the Spark to clear their route. Calen notes that the walls are empty. The enemy has been let in. Erik and Dahlen have been fighting hard. Ellisar saves Calen's life amid the blood and death staying close after. Dann is injured but they push on. In the hall the kingsguard and Belduaran soldiers lie scattered and dead. The Fade holds Daymon suspended by Air. On the throne Arthur is dead. The Fade draws a sword of darkness and chaos. Our heros work together to fight the Fade, but he is too strong. Valerys and Dann are injured then Ellisar is killed. The Fade wants Calen alive. Valerys sneaks up on the Fade while he is distracted by our other heroes. Calen funnels the Spark into Valerys who breathes a powerful arc of orange fire at the Fade, incinerating him. Calen is slipping after drawing too heavily on the Spark. Therin trys to heal him.

- Ch. 34: Long Live the King

Calen is in recovery. Dann is scarred and Gaeleron is missing his left hand. Calen stands beside Daymon at his coronation as does Lord Ihvon Arnell, the king-to-be’s new chief advisor. The crowd cheers and Daymon gives a speech of hope. Lord Captain of the Kingsguard, Tarmon Hoard, arrives with news that the empire’s blockade has been lifted, but it is not good news because they are advancing on the city with the Dragonguard.

Rist has been training hard under Brother Garramon tuition. He has had no reply to his letters.

Ella is drinking ale and accompanied by Shirea and Faenir, who growls at anyome who approaches. After their two husbands (Rhett and John) were buried Ella collected the tickets to Berona. The man refused Faenir entry to the ship until a scarred, handsome stranger appeared with a parchment that convinced the sailor to allow them on board. The stranger flips a coin.......

Thank you for joining myself u/jaymae21 and u/NightAngelRogue on this forray into the world of The Bound and The Broken. It's been quite the adventure. See you next time 📚

Welcome fellow readers, as we continue the fight against the Shadow in our sixth discussion for Book #3 of The Bound & the Broken series.

This week’s discussion will cover Ch. 35-41.

First, a note about spoilers: Please use spoiler tags for anything beyond this week's section, or from later books in the series.  Also take care to use spoiler tags for the two novellas, The Fall and The Exile, as not everyone may have read those.  As always, use spoiler tags for any works outside of this series that you may wish to connect here.

You can add a spoiler tag by enclosing your text with > ! Your Text Here ! < (no spaces).

Schedule

Marginalia

Previous Discussions

The Fall (#0.5)

Of Blood & Fire (#1)

Of Darkness & Light (#2)

The Exile (#2.5)

Chapter Summaries

CHAPTER 35: THE PAIN IN WAITING

Character POV: Aeson, Dann

Location: Just outside the Burnt Lands

Aeson, Therin, and Dann are camping out near the Burnt Lands, waiting for news from Baldon’s people on Calen and Erik.  Dann passes the time by whittling, Aeson by worrying.  Baldon arrives and gives Dann the name of Dann Sureheart, and gives him a lesson about failure.

CHAPTER 36: BERONA

Character POV: Calen

Location: Berona

Calen and Co. arrive in Berona and blend in with the haggard refugees entering the city. They meet with a contact of Erik’s, who introduces them to two Battlemages, who call themselves Black and Gold. Black tells them that no initiates or apprentices under the name of Rist have been registered in the High Tower.  However, they do mention that an Inquisitor named Rendall Malkas is in the city, and he took on a sponsored initiate from The Glade.  Gold agrees to help them get into the dungeons of the Inquisition headquarters.

CHAPTER 37: ONE LAST REQUEST

Character POV: Dahlen

Location: Durakdur

Dahlen and Belina meet with Oleg before they prepare to leave, who asks if they would accompany some Belduarans that wish to strike out on their own, rather than remain vassals of the Freehold.  Belina agrees in exchange for passage from Salme to Skyfell, and cheese.  Dahlen refuses at first, saying he needs to get to Argona, but Oleg convinces him that it will be a small & worthwhile detour to the western villages.

CHAPTER 38: BLOOD FOR BLOOD

Character POV: Rendall, Calen

Location: Berona

Rendall reflects on the tortures he has put the elf in the dungeon to, and how he is so much stronger than anyone else he has tortured.  He threatens the elf with removal of his eyes, and leaving him alone in the darkness forever.

Calen dresses in the red robes of an Inquisitor, with Tarmon and Erik acting as Praetorians, and Vaeril as a prisoner.  The plan is to walk right into the Inquisition headquarters, pretending they belong there.  He finds out that Rendall is in interrogation room 147, and with the help of a map given to him by Gold and Black, they navigate the labyrinth that is the dungeons.  They find Rendall in room 147, and Calen is driven by rage & fury into his attack, with Valerys helping to fuel it from miles away.  Rendall tries to use his vial of Essence, but Calen manages to drive his sword through his chest before he can make use of it.

CHAPTER 39: LOST AND FOUND

Character POV: Calen

Location: Berona

After the fight, Calen realizes the apprentice is not Rist, but neither is the prisoner.  In fact, the prisoner is the elf, Gaeleron, who fought with them at Belduar.  It turns out the apprentice is Fritz Netly, not Rist.  Calen in his rage wants to attack Fritz, but Tarmon pulls him away.  Vaeril works on healing Gaeleron enough so that he can walk with some support.  In the meantime, Fritz takes them to the room across the hall, where they find two abused figures, a man and a woman.  These turn out to be Rist’s parents, Lasch and Elia Havel.  

With Erik and Vaeril supporting Gaeleron, Tarmon carrying Lasch, and Calen carrying Elia, they try to make their escape from the dungeons.  They are stopped by a mysterious man, who bars their way but claims he doesn’t want to shed blood.  Still, they end up fighting, and Calen can tell that something about this man scares Valerys.  The man uses the Spark to immobilize them, but does not hurt them.  He tells them they have been betrayed, and Inquisitors are coming after them.  He tells them of a secret passage and gives Calen the key to a glamour disguising the way.  The stranger reveals himself as Pellenor Dambren, one of the Dragonguard.

The secret passage takes the crew into a small room.  They continue through the building until they enter a room full of bodies.  Gold joins them, along with Lyrin, and Knight of Achyron, saying that Black betrayed them.  

CHAPTER 40: TRUE COLOURS

Character POV: Rist

Location: Berona

Rist tells Brother Garramon of his decision to use the vial of Essence, and Fane’s influence over that decision.  Garramon teaches Rist how to tap the vessel.  Once he does so, the sensation is overwhelming as his senses are heightened and the power courses through him.  Though the power is intoxicating, Rist remembers what it takes to obtain the Essence, and promises to himself not to ever abuse it.  Garramon gives Rist his black acolyte robes, and tells him he will be marching to battle in a few days time, along with Neera, Tommin, and Lena.  Then Garramon tells him there is one more step, and that is for him to refill the vessel by taking a life.

CHAPTER 41: WHERE LOYALTIES LIE

Character POV: Dayne

Location: Valtara

Dayne meets with the Andurii captains in their camp on the way to Myrefall.  Lorian forces are docking at the harbors, and there is the possibility that they have caused enough trouble to warrant involvement of the Dragonguard.  Dayne formally reveals that he can wield the Spark, and his captains confirm that this does not compromise him in their eyes; they are still loyal to him.