A sworn Guardian at last, Ishvandu's real battle has only begun. The attacks of the Sumadi have grown relentless. The people are dying. Food and water are scarce. And the Circle expects Ishvandu to do something about it. But when he uncovers a terrible truth, Ishvandu must choose between the laws he's sworn to uphold and the power that could save his people forever. Three hundred and forty-three years later, in the forests to the north, Hyranna lies dying and betrayed. Is it too late for her? Or can she outlast the dark power of the Aktyr and free her friend from the cruelty of the Manturian slavers? The answer may lie in a different sort of power: one that has endured the darkness-and may yet bring hope to a broken world. From emerging author, L. E. Dereksen , comes the second of a four-book series that melds realism with the heroic journey on a grand, immersive scale.