Seventeen years of relative peace have passed in Belega while the Karthagans thrive. But this hard-won respite is drawing to an abrupt end. The Red Twins have come of age. Aiden is chosen to lead his people, as is his right as the older twin. But Ethan disagrees. Driven by jealousy, not only of Aiden's status and friendships but also of his new lover, Ethan attacks, seeking to destroy all Aiden holds dear. But Aiden's powers are growing, and at the moment, are far stronger than Ethan's. Thwarted, Ethan flees Karthag, leaving Aiden alone to care for their people. Things aren't going any better for Natan on Sennia. Old jealousies are revived, and the Vice-King imprisons all with the ability to bend nature to their will. So far, Natan's successor, Niko, has escaped capture, but his wife has been taken, and lies dying alone in her cell. Enraged, driven mad by grief, Niko attacks the Vice-King and flees to Belega, there to lick his wounds and gather his strength to return, seeking vengeance. The Karthagan power over nature is stirring to life once more, and Aiden finds his people besieged from all sides. Niko takes refuge on the Isle of Wind, power and death in his hands. Ethan is in Siagan, calling up the power of the lake. And another enemy emerges: the lords of Fredrik's Hall, set to learn the Karthagan secrets. Natan joins Aiden, and together with the Belegan armies, they strive to overcome the madness threatening their very lives. Aiden holds the power, but only Natan with his pure heart can heal the wounds of the earth. And then, only if he has the strength to do so.