When the Rules Break

In this country, war isn't a tragedy. It's a tradition.

Once a year, two high schools are chosen to fight in what's called The Trial - one defends, one attacks. It's real. Guns, strategy, and pain. But not death. Not technically. The rules are strict: shoot to wound, not to kill. Surrender is allowed. Safety is "guaranteed."

It started as a national training program - a way to keep students sharp, ready, obedient for actual war. Over time, it turned into a twisted sport. People watched. Schools trained. Students bragged about their win streaks. Some even counted down the days with excitement.

Lina never wanted to be part of it. But when her underfunded school is chosen to defend, she finds herself in the middle of a war they were never meant to survive. No gear. Not enough guns. And an enemy who's stopped following the rules.

Now, surrender isn't safe. The rules don't protect them.
And no one is coming to help. Or is there?

___

#dystopian
#romance