Talei has agreed to become the Emperor's sole heir, the Lel'ult. To better the relations between her father's and her mother's people. But when she comes of age, Talei must take part in two traditions. During the first, she kills an assassin who interrupts her hunt. Yigdu tradition insists Talei be guided by the ancestors to learn more about herself, alone. As the last heir, she cannot, and must bring her three closest spears: the spear-siblings, Lebna and Lulu, and her most avid protector, the deeply scarred Adanech. They watch out for those angry Talei is of Yigdu descent, while Talei struggles to see where the ancestors guide her. She struggles between her position as a leader and a woman, as well as a past that taught her to be quiet to protect herself. Her people aren't all glad to see her and Talei wonders what she's been doing the last couple years. Despite not following the tradition to the letter, Talei hopes she will discover herself. Whether she was meant to be Lel'ult at all. So she has to be better.