The first in Cynthea Masson's phenomenal new fantasy trilogy features an ancient manuscript whose powerful words can change the fate of all dimensions. As a new Initiate with the Alchemists' Council, Jaden is trained to maintain the elemental balance of the world, while fending off interference by the malevolent Rebel Branch. Bees are disappearing from the pages of the ancient manuscripts in Council dimension and from the outside world, threatening its existence. Jaden navigates alchemy's complexities, but the more she learns, the more she questions the council's work.