Empire of Blood and Darkness

Alexander Kai and his close-knit group of friends begin their Eltheneaen apprenticeships with a thirst to learn the skills needed for the life of a soldier, such as wielding magic, Essence, and their weapons of choice.
However, a surprise attack from the neighboring Kingdom of Xythuu steals the futures they had hoped for-as well as the hometown and family they all hold dear. This group of inexperienced apprentices must trek across their country to seek aid, learning to rely on each other's skills and companionship as tragedy after tragedy befalls them.
As the perilous journey unfolds along with the horrors of war, Alexander begins to wonder if he will ever see his home of Jylinae again. Is there any hope left of resisting Xythuu?