Tentative normalcy shatters for the last time when bird-winged beings infiltrate Gaila City, leaving fear, stirred conspiracies, and a missing girl in their wake. Daru uncovers the reason his niece was targeted, but finding and protecting her will take more than knowledge. However, the outside world isn't what anyone thought, and giving his all won't be enough if he can't figure out which of the two winged races took her. After her dubious "rescue," Sada's new guardians become convinced that she is both a harbinger of doom and the warrior who will shield them. But teenagers aren't meant to save the world. Fortunately, she isn't the only one who knows this. Yet, her uncle is in danger, and that is a quest she is equipped for. Meanwhile, an enslaved assassin's attempts to protect his family are threatened by his revolting conscience and the women who hold his fate.