Kirian awaits his execution with but one hope remaining for survival: that he will be chosen as a companion by the Star of Amalore, to guard and protect her just as she protects the city of Amalore with her power. When the Star denies him, Kirian hears her refusal as the toll of the gallows-bell, not realizing that a deeper intrigue is at work and that he has been chosen for service after allfor service that may yet grant him life, if it doesn't kill him first.
The Star of Amalore is a 9,400 word fantasy short story.