The book starts with a young Prince Metis at the moment known as Malachai sat next to his father King Lutu I in a political meeting about the state of Xyria. A big festival across Ryatorun is happening and Xyria plans to increase taxes on its citizens. Metis interrupts Xyria's leader and criticises their leaders plans as many people are already struggling to pay their current taxes.  King Lutu I tells Metis to