During a period of enlightenment, the country of Riova is at war. But inside the prosperous and advancing city of Desrala, life is peaceful. At least on the surface. Jiada, a young and brilliant astronomer, works under the influence of her professor and secret lover, Audric. But when a more attractive young woman enters the bubble of Desrala, Audric forces Jiada to embark on a quest which he hopes will either rid himself of her or, if possible, give him the answer to the puzzle which has evaded him his entire life: how to cheat death. Throughout her journey, Jiada reflects upon her moral decisions and attempts to discern if she can ever be free of her damaging past. This novel follows her journey and the bitter conflicts—both personal and political—of Riova's rulers.