There, on a planet once part of the Ruby Empire but now antiquated in its technology, she meets Eldrinson Valdoria, and due to extreme weather and lack of incoming ships, she is stranded there for approximately one year.

The novel also periodically shifts to describe the perspective of Kurj, a Primary (top ranking) Jagernaut (most feared warriors of the Skolian Empire) and grandson of the ruling couple of Skolian Empire, Pharaoh Lahaylia and Imperator Jarac.

But when his mother escapes his clutches, he fears the worst, and spends much of the novel obsessing over finding her instead.

Back on the planet of Skyfall, Roca and her new husband come under siege by a rival who claims the title that Eldrinson possesses.

At the point of his final breach into the castle, Kurj arrives with his much superior technology, and ceases hostilities.