Deep in the heart of Xristhana, richest city in all of Ilios, an ancient ritual is about to occur, a glaive duel between champions. It is a custom enjoyed by all noble elves, all except Ilona, fabled princess of the House of Fire. When she fails to thwart the barbaric duel with her powerful magic, she is confronted by the victor who attempts to win her heart with his prize. Before love can blossom, Mithrain, who is a lowly glaive lord’s son, must return to the battlefield. Meanwhile Ilona learns of a plot to murder him and his family. Against all reason, she journeys to the Blacklands to save him. Ten years later, Mithrain returns to Xristhana a changed elf. Violent and sullen, he seems hell-bent on revenge against the powerful magical clan of Etoca, and this time Ilona may be powerless to save him. But there are greater troubles on the horizon. Magic is about to fail the enchanted city of Xristhana, a demon is on the rise and a monster perhaps even more powerful awaits just beyond the nether vale.