Ashur's peaceful life has been torn apart by an invading army. They have captured his home and killed his friends, and the Highland's one defence, Fort Mounce, has fallen without a fight. The survivors have fallen back into the Westwood to hide, but they can't hide forever. Someone has to make the long and dangerous journey to the capital, far in the south, to warn the King. Once again Ashur finds himself riding out with his lifelong friend, Joran, on a mission to get help. This time they are not alone on their quest. Melek, the thief turned soldier is with them, as well as the only surviving member of the Baron's family, Katya, and her would-be maid. A hunter, however, is on their trail, and he is more deadly than anything they have ever seen.
Ashur's peaceful life has been torn apart by an invading army. They have captured his home and killed his friends, and the Highland's one defence, Fort Mounce, has fallen without a fight. The survivors have fallen back into the Westwood to hide, but they can't hide forever. Someone has to make the long and dangerous journey to the capital, far in the south, to warn the King. Once again Ashur finds himself riding out with his lifelong friend, Joran, on a mission to get help. This time they are not alone on their quest. Melek, the thief turned soldier is with them, as well as the only surviving member of the Baron's family, Katya, and her would-be maid. A hunter, however, is on their trail, and he is more deadly than anything they have ever seen.