In a steampunk city powered by electric magic and still healing from war, Ada worries about her younger sister Safi's growing powers. She knows Safi could learn magic control under a king's magician, but war memories linger, and Ada can't keep Safi safe at home with power-stealing liches lurking. A traveling magician troupe arrives, spots Safi's talent, and offers her an apprenticeship. Safi eagerly accepts, even if it means leaving Ada and their ailing father. Ada's fears are justified, as not all friendly faces are what they seem.