When Emya's village is invaded by two magic-wielding barbarians that proclaim themselves kings, the last thing she expects is to be taken in as their mage apprentice. Emya understands little about magic, despite having known it all her life. She was told it would destroy everything she hated, then everything she loved, and then herself. Yet the kings alleviate her fears and show her potential she never imagined.

Her future was bright and formidable as the fire she twists in her fingers, except for the strange, sickly young man the kings hold captive. His presence is as a shadow, but Emya is determined to ignore him, choosing to believe in the kings' extraordinary plans for her. Yet, as a strange enchantment falls over the village Emya can't help but wonder what the kings' true intentions are.