Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2 (Twelve Systems Chronicles #9)

Lilian Thornraven survived her Trial by Ordeal.

As Lucius Mercio’s protégé, she should finally be free to build the future she has only begun to imagine.

Instead, revelations uncovered in the depths of Desperation Crevasse expose a threat far older and more dangerous than anyone suspected.

The Despoilers are not gone.

They are organized, entrenched, and preparing for war.

When a desperate rescue mission erupts into open battle, Lucius Mercio is gravely wounded and trapped behind enemy lines. With Serengeti's leadership in peril and the future of Adelaide's Guild hanging by a thread, the protégé's ancient title of shield bearer becomes a grim reality.

As ancient prophecies converge and old loyalties begin to fracture, Lilian finds herself standing between the Twelve Systems and a darkness that has endured for a thousand years. At the same time, Lucius faces a growing threat from within his own family, as resentment, ambition, and tradition are weaponized by those he trusts most.

The launch of the Nightingale promises a future beyond the Twelve Systems.

If the Order of the Twelve Systems survives long enough to reach it.

Victory in Desperation Crevasse may buy time.

But some battles cannot be won with blades, armies, or commerce.

Some battles are won by those willing to become the shield protecting what they love.

And the cost of that duty may be higher than either Lilian or Lucius is prepared to pay.

THE TWELVE SYSTEMS CHRONICLES

The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1

Bright Star: The Apprentice, Volume 2

Transgressions: The Apprentice, Volume 3

Fortuna: The Apprentice, Volume 4

Serengeti Valor: The Apprentice, Volume 5

Nightingale: The Apprentice, Volume 6

Bond Proof: The Apprentice, Volume 7

Chalice Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 1

Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2

Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3