The Barbarian’s Vow (Barbarian Duet #2)

A t first, Cador thought he had something in his eye. Straining his neck, he peered through the barred window behind him, grateful for the disgustingly hot air that brushed his face. He lifted a hand to shield the sun, the irons thwarting him. He squinted.

No, the structure was real, and as they crested the rise, he could only stare as the castle came into sight. Atop high ground across the valley, it towered over the lush spread of forest. There were no signs of fire or drought here, although the heat was unbearable.

Beyond a stone wall and gates, the castle perched on a hill with a spiral path looped around it. The palace rose to incredible heights in rounded towers of unnaturally colored stone that gleamed blue, red, green, and purple.

A lake shimmered in the valley, sunlight glinting off its peaceful surface. Cador would have given almost anything to be able to dive into the clear blue depths. The awful nausea had subsided, but he was sure he was going to sweat to death in the unbearable heat.