In the aftermath of the brutal murder of his father, Richard Cypher encounters a mysterious woman, Kahlan Amnell, in his forest sanctuary. She seeks his help...and more. His world, his very beliefs, are shattered when ancient debts come due with thundering violence. In their darkest hour, Kahlan calls upon Richard to reach beyond his swordto invoke within himself something more noble. Neither knows that the rules of battle have just changed...or that their time has run out. This is the beginning. One book. One rule. Witness the birth of a legend.