In the Liwen Empire, shifters are regarded as more beast than human; criminals in the eyes of the law.

After a sudden betrayal by those closest to him, Nathan Vega needs an escape. With his current level of magical aptitude, securing an apprenticeship seems almost impossible.

Brendan Slater prefers the company of his books. Yet beneath his façade of indifference lies a secret more destructive than any spell. After years of reclusiveness, Brendan now has an apprentice.

Could a bond forged from prolonged seclusion survive the shapeless uncertainty that is their future?

Content Warning: Explicit male/male sex and graphic language. Intended for mature audiences.