On the distant planet of Lucina, the government is a secretive, powerful force that no one knows anything about. They work in mysterious stone skyscrapers, never interacting with their citizens. When her friend, Adella, receives an invite for a government job interview, curious, adventurous Zia decides to tag along. In a thrilling adventure, she discovers the government's secret, and her own unimaginable power... The Brightening is a story of persistence, determination, courage, and the desire to make a positive impact on the world.