House Everfree: ancient, pure, and on the brink of disaster. Despite bowing to the ruling of the Thaumata fourteen years ago and taking on a neophyte, Everfree's very way of life is still under fire: House Whitetail is pressuring the chamber to decree that the burden of impurity be more evenly shared by the ancient lines. With a vote of no confidence in Consul Quercus scheduled to be debated next month, all of Equestria is watching House Everfree's every step—and all are ready to pounce at the first sign of weakness.

The pressure is even felt by Maria, the first neophyte of Everfree, student at Canterlot Arcana. At times, it seems as if almost everything she does will bring shame to her House—her family. Maria must learn to navigate the treacherous waters of student life and politics, all the while juggling her schoolwork with her social life. A difficult act, but such is the life of a neophyte.

She should be careful, though. There's something moving in the dark.