Mae has settled into the palace as Prince Cadel's future wife. The prince is not happy about the arrangement, wanting to protect Mae by sending her home. Mae spends her time trying to find ways to protect the prince and the king, feeling they are still in danger. She researches the Holy High Council and the history of the royal family while spending time with the dangerous Highest One, the leader of the council.

Cade starts to see that he was foolish to think he could ever send Mae away. Though he still fears for her safety, his love for her grows to the point that he can do nothing but want her as his future wife. She is unsure of his change of heart; afraid he will push her away again.

The threat in the city grows as the Highest One is desperate to use Mae and her powers. The kingdom is unstable as the people in many lands talk of revolt due to their suffering. As they work on trusting each other, Mae and Cade must also find a way to endure heartaches and pain they could never imagine.