In a world in which the Greek philosopher Anaximander was right about everything, Sophia Aetós has lived her life on top of the flat cylinder of the Earth as the nations of Europa, Asia, and Libya fight for control over meager territory.

Now, she must lead the first Europan expedition into the Moon, which, as every child knows, is a circular hole in a massive ring of bark filled with pale fire. The goal of the expedition: To locate Apeiron, the mythical ur-substance from which all other matter derives.

It soon becomes clear that not everyone wants the mission to succeed. At least one crew member is a saboteur, willing to sacrifice their life to see the ship consumed by Moon fire.

Not only that but factions in the Europan government wish to use Apeiron for military purposes, potentially launching an all-consuming world war. Their agents, too, have infiltrated the team.

Sofia must draw on both her leadership abilities and scientific skills in a desperate bid to save the expedition and ensure that it will save the world, not destroy it.

Also includes two poems, further elucidating the themes of the story.