Leso Varen is still at large and the Conclave of the Shadows must find a way to neutralize ten thousand magical warriors who are hidden in a cave on the other side of the world.

In Kelewan, Magnus and the Tsurani magicians are studying a talnoy and discover that is a beacon for a huge army of alien invaders.

Meanwhile, Kaspar, Talwin and Caleb have been sent to The Empire of Great Kesh to uncover a nest of Night Hawks who are plotting to overthrow the government.

Pug, Magnus, Nakor and Ralan Bek lead a desperate expedition into the Dasati realm hoping to find the key to defeating the enemy who threatens their homeworld.

On the world of the Dasati, Pug and the other Conclave members must find a way to save their people from the magician, Leso Varen, and the wrath of the mad god he has awoken.