In a hidden camp, under leaden skies of ash, on the rumbling slopes of Drochcarn, Tristan opens the golden scroll that is the Augury. But when words of light write themselves on Elyon's second great gift and reveal its true nature, the burden is more than Tristan can bear.Once again, the Company walks with Tristan. He possesses the second great gift. But now he must travel a thousand leagues to where he's hidden the Scepter. And trek hundreds more to return home. Before him lie the fatal enchantments of the red tent, a Cthyllin ice giant, an impossible kobold, Milosh's weakness for wagering, and King Gundovald, Faolukan's ruthless Burgundian ally.The goal-to return Elyon's two gifts to the Tower of Dochás in Ewhain Macha.

For only when both are secure in the Tower can they defeat the Deamhan Lord. But the arch druid Faolukan has built a great fleet in Fjernshavn. Now it's a race to overcome obstacles and danger and return home before enemy ships disembark their foul hordes on Ériu's distant shores. Faolukan wants not to conquer, but to burn, destroy, and crush that fair country under the boots of his bespelled soldiers and shapeshifters. If the Deamhan Lord destroys the Tower before the Scepter arrives-all is lost. And the darkness wins.