In the third volume of the epic martial arts adventure, Redbark has broken up. And the three Afans have chosen their paths. Yskanda lives day to day in the silken prison of the imperial court, hiding amidst his paints until a life-changing encounter.

Prince Jion returns to the imperial palace in disgrace, as Ryu, tired of disguises, begins to take her own name. When she isn't crusading as Firebolt—and causing hunters on both sides to come after her.