Orphaned and Marked

Reyna, a copper-haired human orphan, is marked by runes and forced into servitude as a gold-giver, crafting magical staffs for the gold-fae. Her unique appearance and abilities set her apart, making her both a target and a curiosity in the fae-dominated world of Yggdrasil. She endures cruelty and isolation, her only solace found in her friendships with fellow gold-givers, Lhoris and Kara. When the sadistic Lord Orm sets his sights on her as his next concubine, Reyna's desperation to escape intensifies. Her life is a constant struggle for dignity and survival, haunted by visions of monstrous Starved Ones—undead creatures that seem to be drawn to her. Reyna's resilience and defiance simmer beneath the surface, even as she faces a world that sees her as little more than property.

Shadows and Secrets

Reyna's plans for escape are upended when she, Lhoris, and Kara are kidnapped by Prince Mazrith of the Shadow Court. The shadow-fae are infamous for their mind-invading magic, a power that terrifies Reyna, who guards her own secrets closely. Mazrith's motives are unclear, but he binds Reyna to him in a forced betrothal, claiming it is to protect her and her friends from his ruthless stepmother, the Queen. As Reyna is swept into the heart of the Shadow Court, she is thrust into a world of political intrigue, ancient magic, and dangerous alliances. The Prince's enigmatic nature and the Court's dark customs challenge everything Reyna thought she knew about her enemies—and herself.

The Prince's Bargain

Mazrith's decision to bind Reyna to him is both a shield and a shackle. He takes her to a hidden shrine beneath the mountain, where an inscription proclaims the copper-haired gold-giver as the key. Reyna's initial attempts to escape are thwarted by both magical and physical dangers, including an attack by a poisonous snake and the ever-present threat of the Starved Ones. As she navigates the treacherous politics of the Shadow Court, Reyna is forced to rely on Mazrith, even as she questions his true intentions. Their uneasy alliance is tested by mutual suspicion, but also by moments of unexpected vulnerability and honor.

Visions and Betrayals

Reyna's connection to gold brings on terrifying visions, not just of the Starved Ones but of Mazrith's own past and the secrets of his family. When she repairs a gold statue in the shrine, she witnesses a memory of Mazrith's mother, learning that her death granted him borrowed magic and a desperate quest for a mist-staff. Someone tries to kill Reyna, pushing her from the shrine, but she is saved by Voror, a magical owl sent by a mysterious benefactor. The attack makes it clear that Reyna is at the center of a deadly game, and that her fate is tied to the Prince's in ways neither fully understands.

Flight Through Darkness

After surviving the assassination attempt, Reyna is hunted by the Starved Ones, who seem to want her specifically. Mazrith, gravely wounded, rescues her with the help of his magical bear, Arthur. Together, they flee through the perilous forests and into the hidden passages of the mountain. Reyna's compassion compels her to save Mazrith's life, even as she struggles with her own injuries and the trauma of her visions. Their journey through darkness forges a fragile trust, as Reyna begins to see the Prince's honor and pain beneath his fearsome reputation.

Sanctuary Beneath the Mountain

Mazrith leads Reyna to a secret sanctuary deep within the mountain—a place of glowing flora, clean water, and ancient magic. Here, they find a brief respite from their pursuers. As Mazrith recovers from his wounds, Reyna confronts her own fears and the truth of her visions. The sanctuary becomes a crucible for their relationship, as moments of honesty and vulnerability reveal the burdens each carries. Reyna's belligerence and Mazrith's stoic honor clash and intertwine, hinting at a deeper connection that neither can yet name.

Curses and Confessions

The Prince reveals that he is cursed—gold runes float from his skin, and he has until his thirtieth birthday to break the spell or lose everything. The curse, placed by a gold-fae, has left him dependent on borrowed magic and desperate for a solution. Reyna learns that she is the key to breaking the curse, her gold-working abilities and mysterious heritage making her uniquely important. Their fates are now inextricably linked, and the urgency of their quest intensifies as the deadline looms. Trust is hard-won, but necessity binds them together.

The Queen's Deadly Games

Back in the Shadow Court, Reyna and Mazrith face new dangers. The Queen, ever cunning, orchestrates a public games festival—the Leikmot—inviting rival Courts and setting the stage for deadly competition. Reyna's friends are kept as leverage, and assassination attempts continue. The Queen's machinations are ruthless, using tradition and spectacle to undermine Mazrith and endanger Reyna. The arrival of Lord Orm, Reyna's former tormentor, raises the stakes, as old enemies and new alliances collide in a web of intrigue and violence.

Allies and Enemies

Reyna finds unexpected allies among Mazrith's loyal warriors—Frima, Svangrior, and Ellisar—as well as in the enigmatic shadow-spinner, Tait. Training and preparation for the Leikmot bring moments of camaraderie and mentorship, especially as Frima teaches Reyna to fight with a staff. Yet, suspicion and prejudice linger, both from the fae and from Reyna's own friends, who fear the cost of her growing involvement with the Shadow Court. The lines between friend and foe blur, and Reyna must decide whom to trust as the games approach.

The Leikmot Begins

The Leikmot opens with brutal challenges—tug-of-war, rock-throwing, and a deadly horse race—pitting Reyna against fae champions from rival Courts. The games are rigged against her, designed to humiliate and destroy, but Reyna's resilience and ingenuity shine through. She endures public defeat, near-death, and magical sabotage, but also earns respect for her courage. The games become a crucible, testing not just physical strength but honor, wit, and the will to survive. Each trial brings Reyna closer to understanding her own power and the true nature of the Court's politics.

Trials of Strength

Reyna faces overwhelming odds in the Leikmot, from magical attacks to the scorn of the fae audience. She is nearly killed by enchanted rope, battered in rock-throwing, and forced to ride a wild, unbroken horse in the final race. Yet, with the help of her allies, her own determination, and mysterious visions that allow her to see through her opponents' eyes, Reyna survives and even triumphs. Her victory in the race, achieved through trust and instinct, earns her a braid—a symbol of honor she never thought possible. But every win comes at a cost, and the dangers only grow.

The Price of Trust

As Reyna and Mazrith grow closer, their relationship is tested by secrets and betrayals. A shared dream, induced by fae wine, blurs the line between fantasy and reality, exposing their deepest desires and vulnerabilities. When Reyna discovers that Mazrith has entered her mind without permission, the fragile trust between them shatters. Accusations fly, and both are forced to confront the consequences of their choices. Meanwhile, the Queen's machinations escalate, and Reyna's friends are placed in mortal danger. The price of trust is steep, and both Reyna and Mazrith must decide what they are willing to risk for each other.

The Riddle of the Shrine

The key to breaking Mazrith's curse lies in the riddle of the shrine and the statues hidden beneath the mountain. With the help of Kara's intellect and Voror's memory, Reyna and Mazrith decipher the clues, leading them to a legendary berserker statue and a piece of jade needed to repair the shrine. The journey is perilous, filled with magical traps and tests of honor. As they unlock the secrets of the past, Reyna's own mysterious heritage comes into question. The line between human and fae blurs, and the true nature of her power begins to emerge.

Training for Survival

With new threats looming, Reyna undergoes rigorous training—learning to fight, ride, and survive in a world that wants her dead. Frima's mentorship is both harsh and empowering, teaching Reyna to wield a staff and defend herself. The process is grueling, but it forges Reyna into a warrior in her own right. Alongside physical training, Reyna grapples with her identity, her visions, and the growing realization that she may not be entirely human. The support of her friends and allies becomes a lifeline, even as the dangers multiply.

The Race for Honor

The final challenge of the Leikmot is a treacherous horse race, and the Queen ensures Reyna is given the wildest, most dangerous steed—Rasa, the unrideable horse of Mazrith's mother. Through courage, instinct, and a bond with the horse, Reyna not only survives but wins the race, outpacing her enemies and overcoming magical obstacles. Her victory is met with silence and scorn from the fae, but it is a triumph of spirit and skill. Yet, even as she basks in the moment, a new threat emerges—her friends have been taken, and the true cost of her involvement in the Court becomes clear.

Revelations and Ruin

In the aftermath of the race, Reyna's visions intensify, revealing secrets about Mazrith's curse, the mist-staff, and her own origins. The Queen's power is rooted in a stolen mist-staff, and Mazrith's inability to overthrow her is laid bare. When Reyna's hidden knowledge comes to light, Mazrith feels betrayed, and their partnership collapses in anger and hurt. Meanwhile, the Starved Ones draw closer, and the Queen's machinations reach a deadly new level. The boundaries between ally and enemy, human and fae, are more uncertain than ever.

The Mist-Staff's Secret

The search for the mist-staff becomes urgent, as it is the only way to break Mazrith's curse and challenge the Queen's rule. Reyna's visions reveal that the staff is in the Queen's possession, a legacy of Mazrith's father's betrayal. The realization that Reyna herself may not be fully human, and that her fate is tied to ancient prophecy, shakes her to the core. As the Starved Ones threaten the Court and her friends are taken, Reyna must decide whether to embrace her power and destiny, or risk losing everything she has fought for.

Loss and Resolve

The story ends in crisis—Kara and Lhoris are kidnapped, the Starved Ones are on the move, and Mazrith and Reyna are estranged by anger and betrayal. Reyna is left alone, her victory in the games hollow in the face of her friends' disappearance and the looming threat of the undead. Yet, in her loss, she finds a new resolve. The journey has transformed her from a powerless thrall into a warrior and a key player in the fate of Yggdrasil. With enemies closing in and the future uncertain, Reyna steels herself for the battles to come, determined to reclaim her friends, her freedom, and her destiny.

Characters

Reyna

Reyna is a copper-haired, rune-marked human orphan, forced into servitude as a gold-giver in a world ruled by fae. Her unique abilities and visions set her apart, making her both a target and a key to ancient prophecies. Reyna's psyche is shaped by trauma, resilience, and a fierce desire for freedom. She is belligerent, quick-witted, and deeply loyal to her friends, yet haunted by a sense of not belonging. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with her humanity, her mysterious powers, and her growing connection to Prince Mazrith. Reyna's development is marked by her transformation from a powerless thrall to a courageous, resourceful warrior, willing to risk everything for those she loves.

Prince Mazrith

Mazrith is the enigmatic Prince of the Shadow Court, burdened by a deadly curse that threatens his life and legacy. He is both feared and respected, wielding shadow magic with unmatched skill. Mazrith's relationship with Reyna is complex—he is her captor, protector, and reluctant partner. His psyche is marked by trauma, loss, and a rigid sense of honor inherited from his mother. Mazrith's struggle to break his curse and reclaim his throne is mirrored by his internal battle between vulnerability and power. His development is shaped by his growing trust in Reyna, his willingness to defy tradition, and his ultimate desire for redemption and love.

The Queen (Lasta)

The Queen of the Shadow Court is Mazrith's cunning and sadistic stepmother, driven by ambition and a thirst for control. She wields both political and magical power, including a stolen mist-staff that makes her nearly invincible. The Queen's relationship with Mazrith is one of mutual hatred and strategic maneuvering, while her interest in Reyna is both predatory and opportunistic. Psychologically, she is a master of fear, using spectacle, cruelty, and manipulation to maintain her rule. Her development is defined by her escalating schemes and the threat she poses to all who oppose her.

Lord Orm

Lord Orm is a gold-fae noble, infamous for his sadism and obsession with Reyna. He represents the worst of fae society—entitled, violent, and unrepentant. Orm's pursuit of Reyna is both personal and symbolic, a means to assert dominance and settle old scores. His rivalry with Mazrith is fueled by jealousy and a desire for revenge. Psychologically, Orm is driven by insecurity masked as arrogance, and his actions are motivated by a need to control and destroy. He is a constant threat, both physically and emotionally, to Reyna and those she cares about.

Frima

Frima is Mazrith's right-hand woman and a formidable fighter in her own right. She is pragmatic, fiercely loyal, and unafraid to challenge both Reyna and Mazrith when necessary. Frima's mentorship of Reyna is tough but caring, pushing her to become stronger and more self-reliant. Her relationship with Mazrith is sibling-like, marked by deep trust and shared history. Psychologically, Frima is driven by a sense of duty and a desire to see justice done, even in a world where the odds are stacked against her.

Svangrior

Svangrior is a stalwart warrior of the Shadow Court, deeply committed to Mazrith and the old ways. He is gruff, disciplined, and often skeptical of outsiders, especially Reyna. His loyalty to Mazrith is unwavering, but he struggles with the changes Reyna's presence brings. Psychologically, Svangrior is shaped by a rigid sense of honor and a fear of losing control in a world upended by magic and betrayal. His development is marked by gradual acceptance of Reyna and a willingness to adapt for the sake of the Court.

Kara

Kara is a young, rune-marked gold-giver and Reyna's closest friend. She is gentle, intelligent, and resourceful, providing emotional support and practical help throughout Reyna's journey. Kara's innocence is both a strength and a vulnerability, making her a target for those who would use her against Reyna. Her development is shaped by her growing courage and her willingness to risk herself for her friends.

Lhoris

Lhoris is an older, rune-marked gold-giver who serves as Reyna's mentor and surrogate father. He is wise, cautious, and fiercely protective, often serving as the voice of reason. Lhoris's skepticism of the fae and his insistence on remembering their cruelty keep Reyna grounded, even as she is drawn deeper into the Shadow Court's intrigues. His development is marked by his struggle to balance hope and pragmatism.

Tait

Tait is the Court's master of shadow magic, a craftsman and confidant to Mazrith. He is enigmatic, insightful, and burdened by knowledge of the Court's darkest secrets. Tait's relationship with Reyna is one of mutual respect, as he recognizes her unique abilities and the danger she represents. Psychologically, Tait is marked by a sense of resignation and a desire to see the right thing done, even when it means defying tradition.

Voror

Voror is a magical owl sent to aid Reyna, serving as both protector and advisor. He is wise, sardonic, and fiercely independent, often providing cryptic guidance at crucial moments. Voror's true origins are shrouded in mystery, but his loyalty to Reyna is unwavering. Psychologically, he represents the voice of intuition and the unknown, pushing Reyna to embrace her destiny.

Plot Devices

Forced Bonding and Magical Contracts

The narrative hinges on the forced betrothal between Reyna and Mazrith, a magical contract that is both a shield against external threats and a source of internal conflict. This device explores themes of autonomy, consent, and the blurry line between protection and possession. The binding is not just a plot mechanism but a psychological crucible, forcing both characters to confront their vulnerabilities and desires.

Prophecy and the Chosen One

Reyna's role as the "copper-haired gold-giver" and "key" is rooted in ancient inscriptions and prophecies. This device weaves together personal destiny and collective history, making Reyna's journey both intimate and epic. The prophecy is a source of both empowerment and danger, as it attracts the attention of powerful enemies and shapes Reyna's sense of self.

Dual Perspectives and Unreliable Narration

The story frequently shifts between Reyna's and Mazrith's perspectives, allowing readers to see the same events through different psychological lenses. This device deepens character development and heightens tension, as secrets and misunderstandings drive the plot. The use of visions, dreams, and magical mind-invasions further blurs the line between reality and perception, making trust a central theme.

Magical Trials and Public Spectacle

The Leikmot, a deadly games festival, serves as both a literal and symbolic trial for Reyna. The public nature of the games amplifies the stakes, turning personal struggle into political theater. Each challenge is designed to test not just physical strength but honor, wit, and the will to survive, reflecting the broader themes of power, spectacle, and resistance.

Riddles, Statues, and Ancient Shrines

The quest to break Mazrith's curse is driven by riddles, hidden shrines, and magical statues. These devices create a sense of adventure and discovery, while also serving as metaphors for the characters' internal journeys. The process of deciphering clues and unlocking ancient magic mirrors Reyna's search for identity and purpose.

Foreshadowing and Symbolism

The narrative is rich with foreshadowing—visions of the Starved Ones, references to mist-staffs, and the symbolism of gold and shadow. These elements build suspense and thematic resonance, inviting readers to piece together the larger mystery alongside the characters. The use of braids, warpaint, and magical animals further deepens the symbolic landscape.

Analysis

Court of Greed and Gold is a dark, immersive fantasy that interrogates power, identity, and the cost of survival in a world built on exploitation and ancient magic. At its heart, the novel is a story of transformation—Reyna's journey from powerless thrall to key player in the fate of Yggdrasil mirrors the struggle of all marginalized people to reclaim agency and self-worth. The forced bond between Reyna and Mazrith is both a literal and metaphorical exploration of consent, trust, and the blurry boundaries between protection and control. The narrative's use of magical trials, public spectacle, and ancient riddles elevates personal struggle to epic stakes, while the psychological depth of its characters grounds the story in real emotion. The book's modern resonance lies in its critique of systems that dehumanize and commodify, its celebration of resilience and chosen family, and its insistence that true power lies not in domination, but in the courage to face one's own darkness and choose a different path. Ultimately, Court of Greed and Gold is a testament to the enduring human spirit, the complexity of love and loyalty, and the possibility of forging new destinies from the ruins of old wounds.

Last updated: October 15, 2025