Terhese has destroyed the First Pebble of the plains and freed the territory of the Binder's magic. As her captains plan out the next steps of their journey, Terhese must earn the respect of the people while balancing her new position as Queen. They travel to Tree Country to seek out old allies, find new enemies and destroy the next First Pebble before heading down the rivers. Throughout it all, Terhese struggles with the strength of her power and influence on the people, and creatures, around her.