In a primitive, post-apocalyptic land, a lone hunter is forced to lead their people in a battle of kindness against evil.

Luxalia and the Woodlands are very different communities on a large island which, as far as its inhabitants know, is the only place in the world where anyone lives.

The Luxalian society is the more technologically advanced of the two, and is held together by a form of religion. In the Woodlands, there is almost no society at all, and people survive by hunting and gathering.

Qama, who hopes to raise a family one day but is content for now to live alone, is a mostly typical Woodlander, unusual only in that they are non-binary - something which is not commented on or even thought about by the people they normally meet.

Peace on the island is shattered when the Luxalians decide to start mining in the Woodlands, creating an enormous threat to the area and everyone who lives there.

Very unwillingly, Qama is persuaded to lead the defence of the region, and becomes a hate figure among the Luxalian leaders as a result.

Valuable support comes from Qama's friend Perens, her ex-boyfriend Landro (initially an enemy of Qama until Perens tells them both to behave), the other Woodland hunters and a mysterious old man whose identity shocks everyone when it is revealed to them.

Even with their help, however, the situation becomes hopeless when the Luxalians bring new technology to the battle. The Woodlanders are unable to respond. Their way of living will soon be impossible. They cannot win.

Or perhaps they can . . .