Description

Back Cover Synopsis:
Mom was still mom, and I still think of myself as human. But I was a human infected with the Sithryn Virus, and therefore by law owned body and soul by our world’s invaders.

Sithryn
A genetic offspring of humans first known to mankind 2041. This date coincides with the realization of parallel worlds, although no more is known on this subject other than the Sithryn race entering our universe through unknown means. According to the explanation given by Sithryn authorities, a virus from their native world(s)’ atmosphere infects fetal children via inhalation from the mother. This causes an infant’s body to develop the physical characteristics of a Sithryn, and is their race’s method of reproduction. Media sources have reported the Sithryn leaders’ “apology” for the inconvenience and urge any mother bearing a Sithryn child to alert Sithryn authorities immediately.

Stripped of her family, her possessions, and even her name, 13-year-old Svani struggles to keep her spirit intact in an institution bent on breaking her humanity. She is a xie’nya, a Sithryn caught late by authorities, raised by humans and contaminated by human culture. Mocked and demoralized by her Sithryn classmates and guardians, Svani keeps to the shadows of corridors while stifling her grief for her human mother. Only after beginning a wary friendship with native-born Sithryn Kureo can she regain her courage to question what authority tells her – and break through the walls that separate the Sithryn race from humanity.