Bond Proof

Lilian has only a few sevendays remaining in her Trial by Ordeal.


For three years she has lived one day at a time, not daring to imagine a future beyond the proving of her bond. The strategy has carried her through betrayal, bloodshed, and impossible trials. Now, with the end of her trial within sight, she walks a blade’s edge between duty and discipline.


And the forces aligned against her are determined to turn that blade on her.


As preparations accelerate for the Nightingale's voyage into the newly discovered Thirteenth System, new Serengeti allies from the free-trader worlds arrive in Crevasse City. What begins as a routine investigation soon uncovers connections to the pirate wars, old conspiracies, and enemies thought long defeated. As foes move against Serengeti and Bright Star, Lilian's extraordinary ability to uncover patterns reveals a danger no one else can see.


One capable of destroying Bright Star before it ever launches.


Lucius Mercio has spent years building Serengeti into one of the most powerful commercial interests in the Twelve Systems. Ruthless, brilliant, and feared throughout the galaxy, he has defeated rivals, traitors, pirates, and Servants of Anarchy.


But some enemies survive by hiding in plain sight.


As assassins close in, old wounds reopen, and the past reaches into the present, Lilian and Lucius must confront threats that began long before either understood the game being played.


Because the final trial is not proving the bond.
It is surviving long enough to claim the future.


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