The Raven Thief
Born of the wastelands, Spheris Arnadel, a young skilled thief, finds himself subject to a twist of fate when he steals a powerful relic and becomes a Bearer — humans gifted with powers from the Gods. As a punishment for his theft, he is cast into an otherworldly realm alongside other Bearers, where he faces off against monstrous beasts and powerful enemies. Yet, in his determination to return to the Continent and save his dying mother, Spheris is hell-bent on surviving the abyssal world. Even if it means giving his body to the Dark God whose powers he had stolen... even if it means losing all of his humanity.
• Bestar Ivyssis
'A featherpen?' Spheris pondered. 'It might be the only thing she had, but it's still a bizarre gift. Did she take me for some kind of scholar? Or perhaps featherpens are more valuable than I think.'
He pouted. 'Not that I would need the money. A thousand silver callisters a day is more than sufficient.'
Gareth halted, bringing their walk to a stop. "We've arrived."
In front of them was a large door, bedecked with golden flowers and leaves. Spheris gazed at this door for a moment before turning to Gareth.
"The courtyard is beyond this door. Bestar Ivyssis prefers to have his training in a serene place. Do well to respect his rules, he's a very strict man."
The two marshals by the door approached Spheris with a small box. "No weapons inside. If you have any, it goes in the box."
Spheris regarded them with an untrusting gaze then glanced at Gareth. The Head Marshal gave him a nod of approval. "Remember what I said about respecting his rules."