Thirty years ago, Prince Herlen of Astenforth massacred the elves of Maqqell. Those left alive were enslaved, their natural magics subdued and their last names stripped from them. Now, the prince wants nothing more than to be judged for his crimes. More than that, he wants to set things right: to improve the lives of everyone in his kingdom, and secure Maqqelli independence. After a decade of planning, he’s finally ready to make his move. He needs only one thing: someone for the elves to rally around. He needs a Maqqelli on his side.

All her life, Em, a Maqqelli born in Astenforth, has swallowed abuse, known her place, obeyed the rules. Desiring any semblance of power, she joined Astenforth’s military, excelling despite hostility and hatred. Her reward? Being thrust into the service of a traitorous prince who elevates her into his royal guard, all the while whispering ideas of freedom and revenge for her people. But Em doesn’t want revenge. She simply wants enough power to live without fear of being bought or beaten. Still, she must choose: refuse the prince and lose the bit of power she's worked so hard to gain… or help him, and risk her own life as well as the lives of her people.

Power doesn’t come cheap, however, and Em’s hands are soon stained red as she protects the prince from a strange foreign threat. As they grow closer, Em learns Prince Herlen’s interest in her runs deeper than seeing her as a pawn for his revolution. Why does he sometimes confuse her with someone named Ishiri? Why does he care so much about her people? Can she truly be the symbol her people need, and is it even worth trying? For she knows if she fails, further oppression will befall them, but if she succeeds, they might taste freedom once more.

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