Rousted from exile, the family of Nelek and Trenna Dyngannon struggles to survive as they are thrust back into the war between Eldur and humankind.

Over twenty years since making her bargain with the blood mage, Trenna had begun to hope Dyngannon had forgotten them. But when their exile is interrupted by assassins, she knows the time has come for Kaden to make his choice. But how can a man choose to be a king if he has never met the people he's meant to rule?

Her son in tow, Trenna leads them on a perilous journey into the heartland where they are confronted by the plight of the Eldur people. Dodging old enemies and pirates, they make for Kiavana, the last beacon of peace between humankind and Eldur. When they find the fortress under siege, the pair is thrust into battle, but there is an ancient power at play that not even they can see coming.