Princess Lainey is being sent to marry Prince Emmet in the distant and hostile Outlands, while Princess Joselyn enjoys a luxurious royal send-off, stirring jealousy. Lainey is warned to win Emmet’s heart to strengthen political ties, but she fears the harsh conditions and doubts her mother will see her off. Despite pleas and fears of barbarian dangers, Lainey accepts her fate. As she departs with attendants, she promises to protect someone named Hill and escape her grim destiny, leaving her future uncertain amid looming threats in the Outlands.