Kingdom of Blood and Ruin
40 parts Ongoing For years, Zahara has kept a low profile in the bustling city of Elynsi, the capital of her once-beloved kingdom. To survive, she has resorted to picking pockets, a skill honed out of necessity. Little does she know that her next target would change the course of her life forever - the crowned prince of Vandrea himself, Caelum.
When Zahara's nimble fingers find their way into the prince's pockets, she is caught red-handed. However, instead of facing punishment, Caelum presents her with a proposition: gather information on the growing rebel forces, and her theft against the crown will be excused. With her life hanging in the balance, Zahara has no choice but to accept.
As Zahara navigates the treacherous world of espionage, her path intertwines with that of Xander, the charismatic leader of the rebellion. Despite her initial distrust, she finds herself drawn to his cause and his unwavering determination to overthrow the tyrannical King Darius. Torn between her loyalties, Zahara's heart begins to waver, and her feelings for Xander blossom into something deeper.
Meanwhile, Caelum, once a staunch supporter of his father's regime, questions the brutal methods employed to maintain control. Zahara's presence awakens a defiant spirit within him, and he begins to see the injustice that has plagued Alynthi for far too long.
As the tensions between the rebels and the crown reach a boiling point, a series of public whippings and executions unfold, exposing the true horrors of Darius's reign.
As the war rages on, secrets are unveiled, and loyalties are tested.