Ordowahl is the 9th son of King Stegnwahl of Nordland. Being faster, stronger, and brighter than his many older brothers gets him expelled from the kingdom when he comes of age, which in the 11th Century is the 17th birthday. In this volume, part one of a trilogy, he learns a few things about adulthood, sheds blood, survives encounters with black mages, and meets a captivating woman.Janalei is self-motivated, considers suitors to be light snacks to be enjoyed and discarded, and reacts to Ordowahl, when they meet, with great, er, reserve. She shows two different faces to the world. First as Vice-Count Utrecht she performs duties assigned by her housebound father the Count. When not busy governing she is the captivating Lady Janalei.Prince Ordowahl spends a great deal of time with the vice-count, who insists that the lady Janalei wants nothing to do with him. This is a story of two strong wills and two lovers fated to collide, - - don't take my word, read the book.