In the twilight of the Vildesian Realm, Darshima struggles to gain a foothold into adulthood. Seeking to balance age-old traditions and find his place in the world, he makes his way with the help of an exemplary older brother, a caring mother, and a dutiful father.

An unexpected opportunity brings Darshima and his family on a journey to the realm's capital. His life is forever changed when the realm experiences a brutal invasion by an unknown enemy. Captured and taken as a slave to a distant world, Darshima toils under extreme conditions. His life under constant threat, survival becomes a daily challenge. When things appear at their worst, he learns of a secret buried deep within that might liberate him, unshackle his people, and break an empire.