Escape to Malmillard — K.G. McAbee

Lord Erek never thought his magickal abilities would amount to much-not that his guardian aunt would allow him to use them, even if they did. But when his new tutor discovers that the talents Erek thought so minimal are instead far more than that, his life changes. Magister Andru introduces the young lord to some friends, one of whom had once been very nearly in Erek's particular situation-a situation that ended most tragically. Now Erek must make a decision. Will he give up the study and development of his powers-or will he continue to develop them? A dangerous choice he finds, but a choice that is instead made for him. He cannot now stop his studies, for his awakened powers could turn on him-and rend him to pieces. And even worse: his lady aunt has found a new use for her neglected, despised sister's son-one that could cost Erek his life. So a chase begins: Erek with his tutor and three new friends, Ursyn, Vlad and Commander DiaVandryn, followed by the shapeshifting Lord Dain and his henchmen...one of whom is mad. What are their plans for Lord Erek? Why do they need him so desperately? Will Erek reach the haven of the Academy of Malmillard with his powers-and his life-intact? Or will a more sinister plan come into effect.?