In the Known Lands, it is said that when one powerful prophecy dies in its fulfilling, yet another is born. In the land where Jack, the baker's boy, successfully fulfilled his destiny, a new prophecy arises in the harsh, exotic lands to the north. Two young residents of the Northern Territories, Rail Sevrance, a member of the Clan Blackhail, and Ash March, a girl who is suddenly overcome by powerful, ominous dreams, find themselves mysteriously drawn together. Swept up in a series of events that will bring their peoples into a vast war, the two encounter dark magic, great bravery, and unimaginable danger, as the first part of J. V. Jones' new masterpiece roars to its stunning conclusion.