Children are disappearing in the dead of night; panic-stricken parents are left with empty cradles and even emptier hearts. When Galina, High Priestess of the Temple, narrowly escapes an assassination attempt, she becomes suspicious of the Templers, trusting only in her personal guard, Ivok. The Old-lady has visions of the gathering shadows, but she also predicts that the mysterious Barden will serve as a shining light and keep the darkness at bay. Alas, Barden has an enemy of which he is oblivious. When rumours of his dark and dangerous magic begin to flood the temple, it is only a matter of time before the sacrificial drums call for his death. In a race against time, unlikely heroes are thrown together to fight for the survival of Ferenze. is everything that makes for good fantasy - magic and intrigue, dark creatures and strange languages; all expertly woven with complex characters, unexpected heroes and page-turning suspense.