Rhimas' saga continues as she returns to her colony, pregnant with the child of a Tungali chieftain and imbued with the power of the Lore. She travels with mixed emotions, resolved to accept the great responsibility given her by the crown she wears and yet nearly heartbroken by the separation from the man she loves. She longs to be reunited with her best friend, knowing that she will find acceptance from a kindred spirit. The healer has yet to be made aware that she returns to a different social and political environment within the colony than when she was taken. Her wisdom gives her the understanding that Sorga will have something lurking within the shadows, in his attempt to destroy her. She senses rising darkness throughout the land like a conjured wall of power that must be breached, allowing her to see how much danger truly awaits her return.