The novel is set in a fictional city called Tova, a holy place during a time of a solar eclipse, a sacred event watched over by a Sun Priest. During this time, a ship is seen approaching Tova. At its head is Xiala. Xiala comes from the people of Teek. Teek are scrutinized for the powers they possess, and Xiala, despite her fierce kindness, is filled with enormous power, which she will become aware of only later.
Aboard on Xiala’s ship is a very important figure, a man called Serapio. Serapio, at the first glance, is harmless, but he is a source of great danger and in front of him lies a destiny he can’t turn away from.
Meanwhile, in Tova Neranpa, the Sun Priest, is facing dangers of her own. Her position as the Sun Priest is questioned because of her infamous background-she doesn’t come from a remarkable clan. This threat is strengthened by the death of the Carrion Crow’s leading woman, and her son’s presence challenges Neranpa.
Neranpa is the leader of the Watchers and the fight between the Carrion Crow and the Watchers breaks out, resulting in Neranpa’s dethroning and an attempted murder. As Serapio and Xiala arrive to Tova, Serapio’s purpose for coming there is revealed. He kills the majority of the Watchers but finds no sign of Neranpa. The novel ends with the Eclipse casting darkness upon Tova.
