Raegna once dreamed of serving the matriarchy by joining the ranks of the elite Maidens. But she endures a life bound to Bai, the husband her mother forced onto her, with the love of their daughter their only common ground.

Her mother's recent passing gives Raegna the chance to divorce Bai, but her freedom is short-lived when their village is raided by rebellious warrior-men. The last free survivors, Raegna and her family face the responsibility of warning the realms - starting with their neighboring village.

But the tale of men with blades leaves the village Matriarch unconvinced. These men could strike again, and Raegna must earn the Matriarch's trust before more lives are lost. Her only ally may be the husband she never wanted.