The Mapkeeper and the Rise of the Wardens (26 page)

“We kobolds are the keepers of the forest. We know the secrets of the land and all the creatures that inhabit it. And we try to do good by those whose intentions are pure.” She smiled, her eyes sparkling. “Mapkeeper, we will help you find your brothers.” The rest of the kobolds erupted in raucous cheering, their whoops and squeals echoing off unseen walls deep in the blackness of the cave. The steady dripping of water was, for a moment, drowned out.

Exhausted, Lucy looked up into Cleo’s eyes. She clutched the map against her chest, ignoring the uncomfortable tingling of blood prickling its way back into her arms and hands. The map commenced its familiar pulsing glow, the warmth penetrating to her core. Drinking in a deep, shuddering breath, the Mapkeeper nodded to the queen of the kobolds.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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I would be remiss if I did not extend my deepest thanks to my husband, who has supported my dream of publishing a novel from conception to publication. To my developmental editor H. Fryer, without whose incredible and unwavering constructive criticism I would not have produced my best possible work, I thank you immensely. The ongoing love and support of my family brought life and fresh meaning to the sometimes painstaking process of writing, editing, and repeating. Thank you, and I hope to have your continued patience and understanding as I forge on with my writing career! To Diana
Buidoso
, who rapidly and skillfully modified draft designs to craft a stunning final cover image—you exceeded my expectations and I am so grateful. Finally, I want to thank my readers! I look forward to interacting with you and receiving your feedback as I continue to write The Mapkeeper series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Katie Cash is an active duty military officer who lives in San Diego with her husband and their cat. She enjoys running, surfing, competing in triathlons, and, of course, writing. She also hosts an annual badminton tournament, rides a 150cc Vespa scooter, and plays the cello. She can most often be found exploring new running trails, at the beach, hunkered down writing in a coffee shop, or sampling a new local craft beer at one of San Diego’s many craft breweries.