Whatever Davan wants, Treasta makes sure he gets.

So when the thief-king puts up an irresistible offer, she agrees to partner with Davan on a mission to steal a legendary flute cursed to turn its player to gold. Setting out on a monthslong journey, Treasta and Davan find themselves in direct competition with their fellow guildmates. Then, they meet Chimes, a nomad well-versed in the wintertouched highlands and temperate lowlands of the Great Canyon, who has agreed to be their escort. Davan sees Chimes' kindness as a threat, and with an already faltering relationship, the growing tension between him and Treasta culminates in abandonment. Now, Treasta is determined to nab the bounty for herself. But things become complicated with Chimes as her guide: a romance buds between them, secrets are revealed, and Treasta's failing physical and mental health are spiraling out of control.

Meanwhile, fellow guildmate Elsie also wants the flute, and after Davan and Treasta leave her to die in a blaze, she becomes hellbent on revenge. Then, she meets Declan, a deaf twelve-year-old boy who comes from an abusive home that mirrors her own childhood, and she finds herself overcome with instinct to protect and care for him. After a warlock kidnaps Declan, Elsie must abandon her quest and reluctantly help Davan who holds the key to saving the boy. Except, Davan has one more demand before he'll reveal what he knows: Someone must die.