In this second book about the land of Palindor, Malathazzar's devious general, Shadow, pits Catherine against her son Michael as Reglendor invades the Third Land.

Each believing that the other is evil, Catherine and Michael lead their forces as they vie for control of Palindor, while behind the scenes Malthazzar gloats as his revenge against Catherine unfolds.

Many of the characters from the first book return. Some, like Drefynt and the dablik, to help Catherine's cause; others, like the Dark Knights, to frustrate it. We meet new heroes, such as the valiant elves Anderskerrin and Hervân and the amiable Treadlong, as well as new enemies such as General Shadow. And of course Iadron and Harsforn return, bickering as always.