Elisa is the first ever ruler to also be a bearer. She takes the throne in the aftermath of the war against the Invierne and her husband's death. One day, as she is praying in the catacombs beneath Brisadulce (her capital city), an attempt is made on her life. During a thorough investigation of the cavern where it happened, a secret passage leading to a hidden village beneath the city is discovered. Their leader speaks of a secret power, zafira, that is mysteriously linked to the Godstones. Elisa feels called to find the zafira, and decides to set out for a place where it is said to be found, in the south, at the gate of life. She sets out on a journey that quickly begins to seem impossible. Elisa must make sacrifices, trust people she's certain about, brave terrible storms, and hold true to her mission, all while battling something improbable and slightly improper - love.