The City (only ever referred as such by the characters) has stood for time immemorial. At its center is Araeon, the immortal Emperor, who has been directing the centuries-long war against all who would attempt to breach its walls. The City is an ancient structure which rises to great heights and delves to great depths. It is at these depths that Stella Gemmell begins the journey for the reader, focusing on brother and sister Emly and Elija as a great flood separates them during a journey through the sewers. Along their separate journeys, the world inside the epic swath of the City is revealed through the eyes and point of view of soldiers and those caught in many struggles of power throughout the city.
[Ascend to the heights of The City...]