It presents the backstory necessary for understanding The Sword of Aldones, Sharra's Exile, and The Heritage of Hastur.

[2][3] On Darkover, Lorill Hastur accompanies his twin, Leonie, to Dalereuth Tower for training.

After observing the weather patterns and geography of the planet from space, a shuttle attempts to land.

She uses her laran to link to one of the minds on the Terran ship and listen to the crew conversations, though she does not understand all of what she hears.

With Kermiac's approval, the Terrans begin building a spaceport at the city of Caer Donn.

Elizabeth and Ysaye are deliberately exposed to kireseth pollen by Ryan Evans, a crew member who means them harm.