In a world where the rebellious Elemental Children of the Earth Mother- Fire (the Old Man), Wind (the Old Hag), Water, and Rock are in a constant battle for release and dominance, Humans have evolved into talented clans to keep the Elements in check. Fire dancers have developed rituals to suppress the Old Man. But he has learned, and fights for freedom in new ways, threatening the balance of the world. Jetta, scarred and recovering from battle with the old man that killed her lifemate, has to find new ways to fight the Old Man.Even as she struggles to find her way to victory and save those she loves from the Old Man's rage, she is forced to balance the emerging affection she finds for her protege Setti and the mysterious Sheshan of the Windriders, a clan not to be trusted.