When Lenore Kael finally leaves her birthplace behind, she believes her life is about to change. Born in one of the poorest regions of the Empire, Lenore has spent her life dreaming of something more than survival. When she receives a rare scholarship to study at the prestigious university in the capital, it feels like fate has finally chosen her. But opportunity rarely comes alone. Along with the Empire's most promising new students, Lenore is invited to spend twelve days and twelve nights in the magnificent estate of the Lungdren family, the most powerful dynasty in the Empire after the Emperor himself. But the manor is not what it seems. Behind its glittering halls lie secrets, strange rules, and mysteries that seem to be watching Lenore just as closely as she watches them. She thought she was running toward the light. Instead, she may have stepped straight into the heart of the darkness. A romantasy story blending inspirations from the wonder of Alice in Wonderland, the mystery of Narnia, and the tension of The Hunger Games.