For 250 planet cycles the elders concealed their secret: they had been exiled from Karna for using their Conrad abilities. Upon settling the planet Aleron they raised their children and continued to evolve as handlers of energy forces. The Conrads of the Light believed their thriving, peaceful world would endure. When "the children" learn of the exile, the Conrad utopian world on Aleron disintegrates. Desiring to become the next Conrad leader, Xavier of the House of Baldemar craves vengeance. He convinces several of his peers to follow him on his quest to annihilate the humans of Karna. Meanwhile, Gloria of the House of Vasilis is assailed by guilt over the questions she asked that sparked Xavier's desire for revenge. Forced into a position of leadership, Gloria is sent by the elders to stop Xavier. Gloria doubts her own abilities, especially when her twin sister chooses to follow Xavier.