Schatzman, Stefanie "The Shadowlink Two Sides of Hexel" Book 2

The lunar eclipse ends but leaves behind evil. Natalie shudders in fear of her mentor, Lorcan. He’s possessed. Determined to save him, she blasts her remaining powers into him. Wide eyes stare back at Natalie as he collapses. She tries various ways to wake him. When she succeeds, it triggers a transformation into his third form.

Amidst the routine chaos, Natalie seeks solace in the secret, dungeon-like tunnels. The rumbling railroad cart transports her and her fellow teenage mages to the Crossroads Barracks. Natalie needs this time to prepare for Hexel, shrouded in black rags. Only Hexel, the cold and deadly guardian, can deem her worthy of entering.

Distractions abound while Natalie and her companions train at the Crossroads Barracks. A major distraction is the annual Feast of Service for their familiars. The fun night takes a deadly turn as a Night Hollow infiltrates the Barracks. Confused by the fading moon and the silence, Natalie runs to Hexel. As Natalie explains the situation, Hexel seizes Natalie’s powers to merge with her abilities. Natalie collapses.

After defeating the Night Hollow, the teenage mages return to their training routines. They believe the Barracks’ danger is behind them. Their new skill is broom flying. The day of competition arrives. It erupts into chaos as a storm of lightning rages. They flee for safety; Natalie is missing. The hidden truth of Hexel unfolds.