Arcus's aethometer is making waves in Lainur as it enables a revolutionary leap forward in the kingdom's grasp of magic. But, out of nowhere, the supply of Sorcerer's Silver essential to the device's manufacture dries up. Unable to meet demand without it, he and his companions travel to the silver-rich western territory of Rustinell. What friends and foes lie ahead? What greater machinations are at work behind this unprecedented upset? And as the consequences of his actions ripple out far beyond his reach, can Arcus still hold his own?