Some seventeen years have passed since the defeat of the sorcerer Morg and the destruction of Barl's Wall: the last great Mage War, as the conflict is now known. It has been a time of great change. In the immediate aftermath of the conflict, one small exploratory expedition set out to cross the mountains, its aim being to discover who lived on the other side. But contact was lost with those brave folk - and they never returned. All these years later, Asher and Dathne are still living in Dorana City, with their children, Rafel and Deenie. The family is torn apart over the decision to cross the mountains or remain part of their insular society. Much to Asher's chagrin, Rafel defies him and sets out on the journey over the mountains. When his expedition also goes missing, Asher is once again brought into the midst of an epic struggle.