Riven (The Arinthian Line Book 2) (70 page)

“Don’t know, lost track of the days a while ago.” Augum thought of the end of year traditions, the feasts, the games, the dancing and singing. He never got to take part in them much, having been ostracized from having friends or family. Sir Westwood had celebrated with him now and then, but it was still … lonely. Regardless, Endyear was a time of joy and peace and families, yet all across Solia, there was only suffering.

“Ten days of holiday celebrations,” Bridget said in hollow tones.

After a time of quiet, Leera frowned. “Forget Endyear. Think we’ll get our 2nd degree soon?”

“Hope so. Can’t wait to show Nana what we’ve learned.” He glanced up at the dark sky. “What an adventure, and somehow, I feel like it’s only just begun …”

“Same,” Leera said, resting her chin on her knees. Then she snorted.

“What?”

“Can’t believe he got dragged through manure.”

They chortled together.

Leera eventually sighed. “What your great-grandmother said about the good of all. It was … powerful.”

“How did it go again …” Bridget said. “ ‘Sacrifice for the good of all is the greatest strength of the benevolent—and the greatest enemy of the selfish’.”

“That’s why they died,” Augum said. “So many of them. They didn’t just sacrifice themselves for us, they did it for everyone …”

The girls nodded slowly. He glanced at his two friends, their eyes reflecting the low flame, and smiled, grateful for their companionship.

They smiled back. Words were unnecessary. They were together and that was all that mattered.

A Note from the Author

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Acknowledgments

The Arinthian Line
has been years in the making, and I couldn’t have done it without the loving support of my wife and editor, Tansy. Thank you to my family, friends, and my readers. This is a wonderful ride. My sincere gratitude for sharing it with me.

As for book 3, it’s already complete and undergoing final editing. But you’ll have to sign up to my mailing list above to receive more hints ;)

All my best to you and those you love,

Sever Bronny

About the Author

Sever Bronny is a musician and author living in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He has released three albums with his industrial-rock music project Tribal Machine, including the full-length concept album
The Orwellian Night
. One of his songs can be heard in the feature-length film
The Gene Generation
. His love of fantasy began with Dragonlance and continues on with Harry Potter. Connect with him at his website severbronny.com.