The Stars of Areon (The Chronicles of Areon Book 1)

Sixteen years old and newly knighted, Darian is now being sent on The Journey, his first step into manhood. Meanwhile Gwendolyn, a seemingly ordinary young girl, finds herself abducted by the servants of the powerful mercenary, Lord Valrak. When our young hero stumbles upon the trail of the maiden and her captors, he gallantly accepts the quest to rescue her. Along the way, he meets a number of companions who join him for honor, for friendship, and for gold.
The rescue party quickly tracks down and defeats the kidnappers only to find their way home blocked by more of Valrak's men. The adventurers decide to brave the wilderness, hoping to avoid these enemies, while making their way toward the noble knight's fortress home. During their travels, they discover the secret that fuels Lord Valrak's pursuit. Overcome at last and vastly outnumbered, our heroes are forced to take their final stand against the forces of evil.