Intriguing start! The first few chapters have been a strong introduction into an unusual culture and setting. There is much I don’t know about their culture yet. Movement has been slowly building over the first few chapters. The initial losses for Lucius are countered with a strange recall that I have yet to understand and haven’t followed well. The dialogue is solid. Pacing keeps a steady beat even through the action sequences in later chapters. More description would help to keep the setting clear. Adding in new understandings of the culture would help. I'm not skilled enough to identify the actual issues. I didn’t find many phrases that held me back. Lucius and Michael have been my main exposure at this point. Both have been developing clearly. Their characters are young, so the flaws and assets simple and I’ve yet to see any direction in their arcs. I’m fine with this at this stage of the narrative. Overall, a good read that I'd recommend. The magic system and culture seems complex and I look forward to learning more. The few chapters I've read have left a solid interest and a compelling conflict with Lucius, his sister, and Michael.