The Sunbearer Trials

The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas unfolds in a vibrant and thrilling world where the mythical and modern collide seamlessly. Every decade, the Sun's immense power must be rejuvenated to ensure that Sol can continue its journey across the sky, holding the chaotic Obsidian gods at bay. To accomplish this divine task, Sol selects ten of the most honourable and formidable semidioses to compete in the Sunbearer Trials, a grueling series of challenges with the highest of stakes. The triumphant victor is celebrated with the privilege of bringing light and life to the temples of Reino del Sol, while the ultimate price falls upon the loser, who is honoured through the sacrificial melting of their body to refuel the essential Sun Stones, safeguarding the world for another ten years.

Teo is a seventeen-year-old Jade semidiós, and the trans son of the goddess of birds. His unassuming nature finds solace in the belief that he would never be selected for the perilous Trials, leaving him more concerned for his best friend, Niya, a powerful Gold semidiós, who seems destined for the competition. Despite his confidence in Niya’s capabilities, the looming one-in-ten chance of her becoming the sacrifice casts an unavoidable shadow.

However, history takes an unprecedented turn when Sol, for the first time in over a century, selects two Jade competitors. Teo is thrust into the trials alongside Xio, the thirteen-year-old child of the god of bad luck. Together, they face the daunting challenge of competing against far more powerful and better-trained Gold opponents. Amongst their fiercest competitors is Aurelio, Teo’s annoyingly handsome ex-best friend and a widely acclaimed semidiós hero favoured to win.

Determined to not only survive but to protect his friends, Teo must navigate through the dangerous trials with wit, courage, and heart. As Teo battles both external threats and internal conflicts, The Sunbearer Trials offers a captivating journey of resilience, unlikely alliances, and the relentless quest for glory amidst the shadows of sacrifice.