With the death of Empress Hetha Kevleren, regions of the Empire of Hamilay see an opportunity to use the magical force of the Sefid to secede. Third Prince Maddyn Kevleren is unable to work the magic of the Sefid; he therefore can't Wield and, as such, is unable to access the magic realm. When Kevleren crosses the most skilled user of the Sefid in the empire--former lover and second cousin Dutchess Yunara--he must take another path to protect himself and loved ones from her wrath. He accepts this as an opportunity to strengthen the empire's stronghold in the New World, knowing that the unknown is less dangerous than the known.