Sometimes even heroes need saving. Winter has settled over Rahm, the Ardanian forces are entrenched in Endvar, and Ria and Merek are running out of options. They've settled on a plan to draw Artem from the city, hoping to use the forest climbers to claim the gates in his absence. But they've underestimated their devious enemy. Artem's cunning has infected even their private lives, weaving a deadly web designed to steal from Ria her crown, the kingdom, and the man she loves. When Artem springs his trap, Merek's life hangs in the balance. It's up to Ria and Aiya to put aside their differences and outmaneuver the enemy, or risk surrendering all hope to the torment of war.