Eighteen-year-old Gabriel Malnythe should be training for his inheritance as a warrior nobleman. Instead, he dreams of entering the clergy and devoting his life to philosophy. But fever takes the lives of his two brothers and Gabriel is pushed towards a decision he thought he could avoid.Should he accept his rightful place in the Elite Corps as one of Prince Justin's guards and advisors? Or can he find a way to escape what others see as his duty?Each path demands a high price. If Gabriel refuses the Elite Corps, he may lose the Prince's trust. But if he joins the Elite Corps, he fears he will lose himself.