Salia Lockheart has started basic training to become a member of the Royal Guard. She doesn't know that during training she will be tested on more than just what her instructors are teaching her.

Salia Lockheart has started basic training to become a member of the Royal Guard. She doesn't know that during training she will be tested on more than just what her instructors are teaching her.

When she finds out early in training that another recruit, Long, seems to have a grudge against her, she tries to concentrate on her training - but soon realizes that Long is willing to go to great lengths to try and sabotage her.

What Long doesn't know is that Salia has a secret - one she will fight to keep.

When a training accident leaves a dragon handler unable to care for his dragon, Salia must step up and take on extra responsibilities on top of her training.

Will it all be too much, or will Salia be able to prove that she is worthy of becoming a member of the Royal Guard and serving the King?