Publisher's Synopsis
Loric has crossed the Shimmering Sea to Regalsturn. Warnyck has departed in search of Evelyn the Maj'i. With half-dragons continuing to advance into Greater Beledon, the defense of the kingdom falls to Barag, the Basher of Belgandost.A mysterious message warns the Basher that Castle Rockwall, in Anseldorn, stands imperiled by half-dragons. Furthermore, Lady Hadelia brings to his attention that an unnatural fire has ravaged Bushubu Country, in Riverwood, and the boy Kelvion is missing. In response, Barag casts off his responsibilities as regent, but he must do so at hazards. First, he passes leadership to Sir Clavic of Juniper Hills, who is younger brother to Aldric, Lord of Egolstadt, until Lord Hadregeon can come to take his place. Second, he must allow Lady Hadelia, precious niece to the Lord of Landolstadt, to come with him into dangers of dragon fire and half-dragon armies, regardless of the fact that Hadregeon has sent her away from the frontline of battle for her safety.Barag must locate the Way Hunter of Riverwood and do battle with half-dragon hordes, all the while tiptoeing to balance diplomacy with war and attempting to shield Lady Hadelia from dangers, as well as guarding himself against developing feelings for a noblewoman who will never have him. Barag's greatest battle is against his own epic strength, which he comes to know as a curse, even though that curse may be the only thing preventing humankind in Beledon from succumbing to its half-dragon foes. With the king abroad, the fate of Beledon resides with the Basher of Belgandost.
