Dabu’s life has been far from easy. Born with a crippling lung illness, he has never been as strong as his father or brother, both of whom have disappeared after attempting to challenge the Trials of Ancients. In the wake of the Tyrant King’s war, his village has come under the control of the Purus, a vicious gang of magically enhanced cutthroats and murderers. The Trials offer the promise of power to any who can clear them, but Dabu has been forbidden from entering. After a violent encounter leaves his family in danger, Dabu faces a difficult decision—either leave the village to challenge the Trials or stay and risk starvation. The Trials are monstrously difficult, filled with dangerous beasts, deadly obstacles, and tribes of challengers who control the areas within. But if he can make it out alive, Dabu will gain the power he needs to finally drive the Purus from his home. This book contains GameLit elements, such as stat sheets, a form of leveling, and experience gain.

After exiting the Trials, Dabu and Uhane set off in pursuit of Phoenix. However, after encountering a magically charged sandstorm, the pair find themselves far from their intended course. Running short on food and water, they have no choice but to try and find civilization. Instead, they find deserted villages, rumors of a terrifying beast that stalks the night, and no way to turn back. All they can do is forge on, both to find supplies and to discover what sort of creature can send entire villages fleeing for their lives. This book contains GameLit elements, such as stat sheets, a form of leveling, and experience gain.