Within the Empire there are no questions, only orders. Elias, Helene, and Tavi are Fivers—in training to become elite military recruits for the Martial Empire at Blackcliff Academy. When they’re sent on a dangerous mission to steal a heavily-guarded poison on Isle South, they soon find themselves up against surprising enemies—including other recruits. As the true horror of their assignment is revealed, these three will begin to confront the harrowing realities of Martial rule, their place in the system...and the choices they must make to survive. New York Times bestselling author Sabaa Tahir joins writer Nicole Andelfinger and artist Sonia Liao for an all-new original graphic novel revealing an early tale of Elias and Helene at Blackcliff, and a stirring standalone chapter in the An Ember in the Ashes mythology.

REBELLION IS FORGED IN THE HEART OF THE EMPIRE. Before they were torn asunder, siblings Laia and Darin lived contentedly with their Nan and Pop within the Scholar district of Martial-ruled Serra. While Laia is afraid to venture outside her home due to the heavy Martial presence, Darin loves to explore all parts of their city—even those that are forbidden. As a dangerous illness spreads through Serra, Laia must confront her deepest fears in order to save a community besieged by disease. Meanwhile, Darin has a chance encounter with famed swordsmith Spiro Teluman that leads him down a precarious path away from his family . . . but towards hope for his people. New York Times bestselling author Sabaa Tahir joins writer Nicole Andelfinger and artist Sonia Liao for an all-new original graphic novel revealing early days in the life of Laia and Darin before the tragedy that pulled them into the An Ember in the Ashes mythology.

The third in a graphic novel prequel trilogy to “An Ember in the Ashes”.