A Garden of Pawns

The realm of Essence is her garden. The flora and fauna are forever grateful Essie triumphed over the monster hunting them.

Three moons have passed since then. Even if it means putting up with less than friendly neighbours, Essie is happy to play the game of ordinary life.

But an unpleasant visit from an estranged friend brings news that changes the game entirely.

The monster still lives.

Though he has yet to make his move, time is running out to figure out his plan and convince a village of wary onlookers that she isn't the one to fear.

Meanwhile, up in the Land Above, two childhood rivals band together to undermine the plot in place to harm Essie, while on Essence's northwestern coast, a warrior's heir finds himself a pawn in a risky alliance with an otherworldly king.

Essie may have allies, but so does the enemy, and the deadly contest has begun.

Note: This story contains violence, sexual situations (but nothing graphic), pregnancy, childbirth, children in danger, and death (human and animal).