Ahnna, a commander who sacrificed to defend her people, is haunted by the belief that she failed to protect Ithicana and must leave it behind to save it. After the Maridrinians devastate Ithicana, Ahnna is promised in marriage to the crown prince of the wealthy kingdom of Harendell. She plans to use her position as queen to gain power and control over the kingdom's gold to help her people.