The Queen, a woman known simply by that title, rules the universe. She nurtures life on many planets by harnessing the elemental powers of her nine Guardians. When it is time for The Queen to appoint a successor, she sees promise in two young maidens, Angelique Limoges and Rosalia de Catargena, and gives them a test: use the Guardians' power to cultivate life and prosperity on an uninhabited planet. However, Angelique is much less prepared than her rival; she must carefully foster relationships with the Guardians if she stands any chance at success.