War with Neth. Again.

War between mother and daughter that Kavan struggles to unravel despite the portents of blood and fire the Sight persistently reveals. War that encourages him to continue seeking a way to return Ágdhállán to Raebhá while he balances responsibilities to his subjects, his family, and the beleaguered royal family.

War that prompts the need for a haven for the relics, books, and lives contained within the halls of St. Kóráhm's in case his negotiations for peace fail.

The Yellow Sisters had dealt Alberni a heavy blow, as it had throughout the Sovereignties, creating an unavoidable demand on his time. As Kavan is hindered by duty, the knowledge of Gate creation remains frustratingly elusive.

A moment of desperate inspiration, however, prompts a long-avoided pilgrimage in the hopes of obtaining asylum for the treasures of St. Kóráhm's, in the hopes of learning what he needs to protect his son.

Instead, an echo from his past provides a revelation that exposes the inevitability of prophecy, war, and the role he is destined to play in both. For a forgotten shadow stalks him, menacing not only him but the fragile concord between realms.

. .

and his youngest son. Despite Kóráhm's warnings, despite the aspiration for peace, Kavan knows his path is set.

He must find a way to return Ágdhállán to Raebhá. He must find the threat that casts this shadow, uproot it, and destroy it.

Before it destroys him and everyone he loves. .