Millaney falls for a talented young man and helps him get into the prestigious Ostleron Academy. Together the two of them are forced to deal with a border incident that puts stress on their newly developing relationship and could destroy the long-standing peace between the Annuvians and Shrkai. Will it be all out war or will Millaney and Lash succeed in their mission and break the dagger. After escaping the island of the and meeting the father she never knew, Millaney learns he has been accused of assassinating the Shrkai high priest. She must decide on whether or not to use her dragons to break him free, or let him face the executioner. Sahn slips deeper into darkness and isolates himself still troubled by the loss of his wife and infant daughter.