Vellus Von’s regime develops technology that identifies the genetic marker for those who carry the Zolfyre Cai. Any who carry a Cai other than Zolfyre, are sent to mining camps to work.

After a short stay, the boys discover a moster sneaking people out of the camp, but no one will believe them.

The boys must navigate this new threat while surviving the mining camp work. They dream of one day learning how to use their Cai and lead a revolt to save their people from the Zolfyre.