Prologue

In a war-torn world, Luna Arren, a brilliant but reluctant strategist, joins Velathyr Military Academy, where survival is the only rule. As her sharp mind clashes with her disinterest in physical combat, she's drawn into an unexpected connection with Alric Thorne, a disciplined top recruit. Linked telepathically through their mated shadow Essentii, they keep their bonds a secret, using it to outmaneuver enemies and rivals alike. But as tensions rise, Luna and Alric must navigate deadly trials and a growing trust in a world where alliances can shatter in an instant.