Ashlan Eldralin has never known the persecution of his forefathers, nor has he ever wanted for anything in his life. However, leaving the protection of his family, he chooses to make his home in Adishian, a Human protectorate where Stravad are considered less than vermin. With his family’s wealth, he establishes a sanctuary for misplaced Stravad, called the Autumn Glory.

Because of his auspicious background and wealth, the Humans leave him alone, even when he provides a place for Stravad to work and build their lives away from the degradation of becoming indentured laborers for Human-kind. Those Stravad who find refuge on the Autumn Glory shower Ashlan with devotion and loyalty, so he’s unprepared when his latest lost waif doesn’t appreciate his beneficence.

Miraya remembers a time when she lived happily with her parents and her sister, but after her parents’ death, she and her sister were forced to work for a man who is abusive in every way. A chance encounter with the famed Ashlan Eldralin sets Miraya on a new path toward discovering what it means to be Stravad, but it isn’t a path she chooses.

However, when the situation turns lethal, Miraya might be forced to accept Ashlan’s help or suffer a consequence that could result in both their deaths.