When Telyn's song magic freed ancient spirits of the Wood, it also awakened a long-slumbering evil. Now she and her beloved Mithrais must battle a spreading shadow that ignites crippling fear, and deal with the unexpected consequences of magic's return. More danger arrives with a royal delegation to the forest realm, sweeping Telyn back into court intrigue and the sights of a murderous lord. Mithrais may be forced to choose between his service to the Wood or the obligations of his royal blood. As Telyn's bond with Mithrais grows, she is torn between her love for him and the freedom of a wandering bard's life. But when dark magic plunges the Wood into chaos, she must balance the two halves of her heart-or the Fates may take Mithrais from her forever.