What If.A long time ago - Recovering from the Leader's punishment for her defiance, the Healer moves forward raising the Outsider child as best she can. When unforeseen consequences of Khon'Tor's Wrath materialize, Adia turns to the People's High Council for help. What If.Instead of receiving mercy and wisdom, she is forced to make a terrible choice - one no woman should ever have to make. Struggling under the cruelty of the High Council's judgment, only the presence of the People's High Protector Acaraho brings her any comfort. But the fire that warms also burns. Forbidden to mate, she prepares to live a life of unsatisfied longing for the compelling, virile male she has fallen in love with.

But can she live with her choice? Or will she set aside a Healer's calling to fulfill a woman's dream? A dream she surrendered long ago, when she accepted The Healer's Mantle.