Hollows of Candlewick — Scot R. Stone

At the heart of the kingdom of Yawrana lies the magnificent Candlewick Castle. King Noran's reign is challenged by Herikech Illeon, the great Lazul king of Maramis, who seeks revenge for the defeat of his armies at the hands of the Yawranans. Herikech makes his ominous presence known, and Noran, unsure when or where Herikech might strike next, must depend on those he trusts to defend the royal family.

King Noran's sovereignty is further challenged when he confronts a trio of new threats: a menacing beast that kills at will as it draws closer to the castle; his devoted followers begin to inexplicably side with Herikech; and three mysterious new drift ships anchored off the shores of Emison Territory. King Noran has no choice but to rely on Baron Oreus to discover their mission and what their arrival portends to the kingdom.

What will become of Yawrana if Herikech Illeon defeats the Yawranan armies? What plans do the three drift ships have for Yawrana? And most important, what will become of King Noran should the beast find its ultimate prey?