A single woman, called simply The Queen, governs the cosmos. Her guidance reverberates across all realms. By channeling the elemental might of her nine Guardians, she cultivates life across countless worlds. When it comes time for The Queen to name a successor, she recognizes potential in two young ladies, Angelique Limoges and Rosalia de Catargena, and sets them a challenge: employ the Guardians" power to foster life and abundance on an uncharted planet. Yet Angelique is far less ready than her competitor; she must carefully build bonds with the Guardians if she hopes to succeed.