The devastating apocalypse has faded into legend for many members of the four kingdoms that comprise Anna's world, but not for the women who rule and not for the Viszudar who strive to persevere to the restoration of the glory of what has been lost. Hidden by her parents following the death of her older sisters, Anna is called to Viszudar training by her mentor and finds a life more rewarding than any she ever imagined for herself. But overcoming the doubts her superiors harbor about her abilities proves to be much easier than conquering the doubts Anna has about herself and about her love for Nicco. Those doubts and emotions are cruelly exploited by the servant of a far more deadly master. Leetha recognizes strength in Anna and so seeks to destroy her while completing the annihilation thwarted by the Dovarsha-Issin. Untested and underestimated, Anna finds the resources to overcome ever-increasing dangers until she faces the most devastating loss of all.