Even in defeat, the Keening continues to transform Cal as it works its magic on the man that he is and the lord that he will be. But while the keening process is out of his control, there are urgent decisions that he must make: Decisions that only he can make. The fate of the Old World rests on his broad but defeated shoulders. The Candlers need him to fulfil their prophecy if they are to even attempt to overthrow the evil regime of Malphas and Ghorram.If they are to face the evil lords, Cal and Mara will need to muster the Candlers to a war that will see them fighting to the death against overwhelming odds. Yet destiny decrees and will not be denied. The lives of men and women are of little consequence in destiny’s great scheme.