For three hundred years, the kingdom of Valtheris has known only peace. Every spring, a noble daughter is chosen. Every spring, she is given to the dragon. And every spring... she is never seen again. Eighteen-year-old Lyra Vaelmont has spent her life preparing for honor, not fear. So when her name is drawn, she walks willingly toward her fate-toward the black dragon said to devour those offered to him. But the truth is far more dangerous than death. The dragon does not kill her. He has been waiting for her. Hidden beyond the reach of kingdoms and lies, Lyra discovers that the last dragon, Kaelith Virex, is not a monster-but a survivor bound by prophecy. She is his fated mate. And together, they are destined to restore what was lost when dragons fell. But awakening the past comes at a cost. As ancient magic stirs and long-buried truths surface, Lyra must decide where her loyalty lies-with the kingdom that raised her, or the world that was stolen from him. Because some sacrifices don't end in death. Some begin a war.