As an Etheri, Mari lacks physical strength and mana control. She feels destined to play the supporting role for her partner Rhu (a natural talent and future Lord of Newhaven) and her cousin Junie (the confident and beautiful one). But when Mari learns that Junie is a member of the Blaze—a mysterious criminal organization—she isn’t sure how to move forward.

Mari finds herself learning about the Blaze and gets embroiled in their misadventures. By the time Junie’s identity is leaked to the Etheri villages and the Blaze comes under attack, Mari is no longer convinced that she can pick a side, but failing to do so begins to endanger not just herself, but the people she loves. Mari must choose where her loyalties lie: with her village, with her friends, or with herself.

Mari has taken great pains to keep Newhaven safe, but now there’s another threat: the Etheri villages themselves. Battle is looming on the horizon. There will be a final showdown—but who will make it out alive?

Mari's life has been uneventful—until she's sent to investigate a slaughter in another capitol building. A conspiracy is working its way through the villages. Mari will form a team to help keep the peace, even if it means leaving home behind.