In the city of Imardin, where thosewho wield magic wield power, a young street-girl, adoptedby the Magician's Guild, finds herself at the centre of aterrible plot that may destroy the entire world ...Sonea has learned much at the magicians' guildand the other novices now treat her with a grudgingrespect. But she cannot forget what she witnessed in theHigh Lord's underground room - or his warningthat the realm's ancient enemy is growing inpower once more. As Sonea learns more, she begins todoubt her guildmaster's word. Could the truthreally be as terrifying as Akkarin claims, or is hetrying to trick her into assisting in some unspeakablydark scheme?