Truth Unearthed: Book One of A False Dawn (The Tales of Lugon)

When Arun received approval to study at the Empire's ancient ruins, he never dreamed it would be a trap. The Dawn Empire plans to eliminate him to keep old secrets, his best friend Baran for being nothing but trouble, and the out-of-favor Warden Athaz for daring to question the Son of Bälech.
However, they are rescued by the most unexpected group imaginable - the Elves of the Savanir. But it doesn't take long to learn this was not done with altruistic motivations. Stuck between the might of a global empire and a young Elf leader who won't hesitate to gamble their lives to save her people, Arun and his friends must try to save their lives and those they love - while not letting themselves be sacrificed in the process!