The second part of the captivating Sangreal trilogy from the author of 'Prospero's Children.' Lately, Nathan Ward's dreams have been transporting him to a desolate city, whose people have fled, save for a sickly king and his daughter. They live in the shadow of a terrifying curse inflicted by a sword that holds an ancient demon; a sword that brings death to anyone who dares to wield it. The king is dying, and only a stranger can save him . . . a stranger who is destined to defeat the dark evil in the blade. But who could ever imagine that a boy still dressed in his pyjamas could be the chosen one?