In the opening scene, we meet Amberle Elessedil, the princess of Elves, as she trains for the Gauntlet race, a challenging competition that determines which Elves will serve the sacred tree, the Ellcrys. Despite the race being traditionally male-only, Amberle decides to compete, much to the shock of the spectators. Her boyfriend, Lorin, warns her about the race's dangers, but she remains determined. 

When the race begins, she is initially knocked down by other participants but quickly gets back up and accelerates, leaving many behind. As the race intensifies, six competitors finish ahead of her, leaving only one spot remaining. In a dramatic moment, Amberle successfully counters an attempt by another racer to push her down and secures seventh place, earning her spot as one of the Chosen.