Syrsha bears the blood of gods and the darkened gaze of her father, yet she wanders far from the promised throne. For most of her life, Syrsha has lingered in exile, hidden from enemies both mortal and divine. Now, stronger than ever before, she longs to return to Eirrannia, the land her mother vowed to save. Across the seas, Jarek, an Elemental mage who commands sky and storm, readies himself for the battle that will soon commence. As sworn ally to Syrsha, he awaits her arrival with unspoken fear, for none know who she has become. But the High Lord desires his daughter's return more than any, for he has sacrificed much for her to live. In search of an army, Syrsha travels east to Tian where men fight without weapon. And where the great cats welcome her as both enemy and kin.