Serengeti Valor: The Apprentice, Volume 5 (The Twelve Systems Chronicles)

Lilian has less than a year remaining in her Trial by Ordeal.

The emergence of Bright Star and the success of Mercium have cemented her value to Blooded Dagger, Serengeti, and most importantly, Lucius Mercio. Yet those who continue to despise and condemn her have not yielded. They have merely retreated. Sabotage in Desperation Crevasse imperils her bond and her life—and proves only the opening move in a far deadlier campaign.

As enemies strike at the heart of Serengeti, old rivalries ignite and long-hidden conspiracies are exposed. Powerful forces move to seize control of Bright Star, while a threat thought defeated returns with devastating consequences. Amid the chaos, Lilian's extraordinary ability to uncover patterns and connections reveals a danger larger than anyone imagined.
One capable of destroying everything they have built.

Lucius Mercio has spent years defending Serengeti against rivals, traitors, and ambitious cartels. Ruthless, brilliant, and feared throughout the Twelve Systems, he has always believed victory belongs to those willing to pay its price.
But this time the cost may be Lilian.

As battle engulfs Serengeti and enemies close in from every side, Lilian and Lucius must fight not only for Blooded Dagger's future, but for the lives and loyalties of everyone they hold dear.

Because in the Twelve Systems, every victory demands sacrifice.
And true valor is measured by what you refuse to surrender.