Chief barrier architect Aelia single-handedly shields the Dawn Court with her magical wards, yet her elven lord husband Aurelian constantly favors Sylvia, an orphan who systematically turns both Aurelian and their young son against her. When Aurelian strikes Aelia during a staged confrontation and imprisons her under false charges of treason, her devotion turns to ice.
Severing their sacred soul bond, Aelia clears her name and walks away into the wilderness, leaving the ungrateful court defenseless against encroaching darkness. As Aurelian spirals into frantic remorse upon discovering the realm's failing wards, Valerian, a powerful high priest she saved years prior, steps forward to claim and protect her.
