The storms are rising The words of House Elsworth never seemed truer. An oppressive silence has befallen the realm. Northerners are raiding the western shores while the king does nothing but bathe in the glory of his famous forebear. Four guardians are the real rulers of the kingdom, yet the great houses watch them like a hawk. And just as the mutual distrust reaches new heights, one guardian dies unexpectedly. By tradition, his successor has to be determined in trials, including a duel, witnessed by the members of all great houses. So Ser Paxton, the Guardian of the West, is leaving the capital to summon Lord Elsworth. The events taking place during his journey will change the realm forever.