In a city powered by magic and still recovering from a bloody war, Ada is concerned about her younger sister Safi's developing powers. She understands that Safi could learn how to control her magic under the apprenticeship of a king's magician. But with the memories of war still fresh, Ada is conflicted by this prospect-despite her knowing that she can't keep Safi safely at home with the threat of deadly, power-thieving liches prowling the kingdom. When a traveling group of magicians comes to the city to perform, they immediately recognize Safi's talents and offer to take her on as an apprentice. Safi is thrilled about her new adventure-even if that means leaving behind Ada and their sickly father. And Ada is right to worry about her sister, for there may be monsters hiding behind friendly faces.