The Kirin Arcanist

The glorious Crown Tournament draws hundreds of arcanists from around the world to battle in magical martial arts competitions… The prize? More riches than anyone can spend in a lifetime—and a ceremonial crown to mark the winner for an entire decade until the next tournament begins. And while most obviously want the wealth, a certain pair of arcanists want the crown instead. Master Elias is bonded to a syrocko drake, a deadly creature capable of controlling the desert winds.

Amir and his ragtag team of arcanists have made it the second round. All the weak competitors have been eliminated, and only teams with synergy and strategy remain. Some teams overwhelm their opponents with dragons. Some use illusions and trickery. If Amir only had to focus on the fighting, perhaps things wouldn’t be so difficult, but problems outside the tournament also need his attention. Sage’s brother might get executed. Master Elias’s old rivals come calling. And one of the competitors might have hired an assassin…

Amir and his team of arcanists have battled their way through countless skilled opponents to reach the national stage—and each victory has come at a cost. But a midnight ambush has left Amir reeling, stripped of his master, Elias, and the guiding light of his kirin, Roux.