As Edwyrd Eska approaches his two-hundredth year as Guardian of the Core, he must find an apprentice to train under him. His title and role compel him to safeguard and govern his universe, Gladonus, as each Guardian before him has done and those after him shall continue to do until relieved of such duties by will of the Ancients. Prince Hydro Paen, Eirek Mourse, and Zain Berrese-amongst other contestants-receive invitations to compete in a quest of Trials intended to determine who will become Eska's apprentice. An old adage goes: "The toughest trials test you truest" - and these events...