Winter is coming to the Shroud and is bringing with it conditions Michael's allies cannot withstand. Greenleaf's clan is at risk and must flee south or else suffer death. Michael's mission for Slanaitheoir's regalia also pulls his friends and him south and away from Brackenvale's safety. With Clifford, Wrane, Ash, and Radha in tow, he ventures into the Abandoned Lands, a vast desert where he must face enemies more dangerous than any he has battled before. All the while, Ankou Levent's forces out of Elatha expand across Vros like a blight. If Michael fails to stop him, no one, not even his friends in the valley, will be safe. Michael needs to become stronger. If he does not, all will be lost.