Briatta is a bright, young Elfean with dreams of joining the ranks of the powerful Ardorists of her people, whose connection to their world keeps the deadly planet Carceron inhabitable. But when she manifests illegal Ardor at her Choosing ceremony, Briatta must do everything she can to keep her powers a secret—even when it means joining the growing numbers of Ardorless, the lowest tier of society thought to be completely useless and a burden on the revered Ardorists. With her lifelong ambitions crushed, she must now find another path for herself…one that means danger, navigating changing friendships, new and old, and discovering the truth about herself and her family. If she succeeds, she’ll have secured a future she can look forward to and be proud of. If she fails? Briatta might lose everything.