The Bedevilled Soul

In Beladonia, peace reigned, or so it seemed. Young Kerik, a fiery spirit, and her gentle sister Tara, navigate a world where the 'Keepers' wield power far exceeding royalty, promising protection but delivering oppression. When a simple lack of food escalates into a chilling confrontation with a sinister Keeper, Kerik's defiance puts her, and her sister, on a dangerous path. Forced to confront the hidden truths of their town and the sinister forces at play, they must fight to survive. But how do you fight against those who claim to protect you, when they are the very ones threatening your existence? Can Kerik protect her sister and unravel the conspiracy before they become the next victims?

The Bedevilled Soul

In Beladonia, peace reigned, or so it seemed. Young Kerik, a fiery spirit, and her gentle sister Tara, navigate a world where the 'Keepers' wield power far exceeding royalty, promising protection but delivering oppression. When a simple lack of food escalates into a chilling confrontation with a sinister Keeper, Kerik's defiance puts her, and her sister, on a dangerous path. Forced to confront the hidden truths of their town and the sinister forces at play, they must fight to survive. But how do you fight against those who claim to protect you, when they are the very ones threatening your existence? Can Kerik protect her sister and unravel the conspiracy before they become the next victims?

Bang! The sudden, violent knock at the door startled me, nearly making me jump out of my skin. Who could it be, so early this morning?

"Kerik, you're not expecting anyone, are you?" Tara's voice, laced with concern, cut through the quiet. We didn't have many friends, and a knock at this hour was unsettling.

"I know I'm a lot of things," I muttered, following her towards the door, "but I don't keep insane humans as friends." The banging continued, growing louder, more reckless. Whoever it was, they were desperate, or dangerous.

Tara slowly reached for the door, opening it just a crack. Standing there, gruff and imposing, was a burly, bald man. My eyes immediately snagged on the black serpent embroidered on his chainmail armor. A Keeper. One of the 'bald knights'. My heart sank. This wasn't going to be good.