V'leshna and her partner, Va'louche, are three things: outcasts, thieves, and wrapped in issues. Their thieving keeps them alive, and in good standing with their fellow thieves. Their scales, which cover their body, face, and tail, ostracize them from the rest of their species, keeping them segregated from their fellow draen. Their issues, abundant and sharp, keep them from any semblance of happiness, while their world attacks them at every angle.
When the two accidentally ignite a race war within their home city of Nhyst, they find themselves drafted into the Kol'tara - the city's combined guard and hunting guild - to act as a social example of a 'reform' for their kind, to represent 'proof' that Scael - those with scales - can function in society just as much as the Skein - those without.
Contending with politics, personal conflicts, and the sudden expectations of everyone around them, V'leshna and Va'louche are forced to adapt, or face something far worse than their own personal squabbles. V'leshna must learn to overcome her impulsive emotions, while Va'louche must figure out how to quell his pride and personal biases - all while avoiding physical contact with everyone around them.
Because as everyone knows in the city of Nhyst, the Scael Plague is contagious. One touch, and your path to salvation itself could be forfeit. The only way to escape the Scael plague is a Purging.
