To Kill a Shadow (Mistlands, #1)

by Katherine Quinn

I can see in the dark.

Salendons were bred for one purpose only: to kill. Silas, the Water God, crafted them out of silt and the bones of the dead—of those unlucky sailors who had drowned beneath his waters. The god abandoned them once he learned they needed air in their lungs and could be easily drowned. It is said that he gifted them to Lorian.

There have been whisperings of a prophecy among my fellow priestesses. It claims the day will be restored when the darkness falls for the light. I cannot make sense of these words, but I do know hope is a powerful thing to have. And hope rarely comes during times of sense.

There are things I find myself needing to warn you of, though I doubt you would heed my caution, as you never have in the past. Whether or not you listen, know this: when you go into the cursed lands, do not send only warriors. Bring scholars, healers, those of strong will and fortitude of mind. They will not only have a better chance of survival, but they will help the Chosen reach the beginning of their destinies.

There have been reports surrounding the northern villages of Ardain and Rine. Fifteen men and women have gone missing from their homes near the Pastoria Forest. Only two bodies have been found, though what little remains of them offers no insight into the cause of death. The medics I’ve questioned have never seen anything quite like this before, and the decayed and mutilated bodies worry them to no end. I beg of you to send aid at once. Letter from Randall Thorne of the Guard to Commander Jude Maddox, year 49 of the curse