Having escaped the clutches of the Hag Silvene, Megan has been recaptured by Darkspawn lord Alsheer, and resumes her journey toward Bal-Karesh. Anabel has been left distraught at the loss of her friend Merrith and vows to do anything to aid her release from a fate worse than death, marriage to slave-master Grik. Brinn is entangled in a war not of his choosing in Timberland North, but feels compelled to help his Dwarf friend Helfwen regain the High King's throne. But the sickness grows ever worse, and Balzimar has to watch helplessly as his young acolyte falls deeper into the abyss with each accidental use of the latent magic running amok through his body. Ben Preem sits outside the walls of Mabak-Var awaiting a resolution to the conflict that has plagued mankind for a generation. When Regent N'Dhun offers honourable terms for surrender, Overlord Imrit must make a tough decision. A decision that will have profound consequences for all of Mankind. The Karesh are ready to take back what was once theirs. But when Ultor consults the Seers the message is mixed. Though he is shown great victories for his army, there is also danger. The mysterious Northman, as ever, stalks the edges of prophesy, his presence casting a cautionary shadow over all. The Karesh warlock has carefully placed his pieces upon the chessboard; now it is time for his next move. Heave -ho, me hearty lads, heave-ho. Furl sail and run for home. 'Twixt thunderous cloud and rising tide. And mind the Maelstrom, berth her wide. Or rest yer bones to windward side. To ne'er again see smiling bride. Heave-ho, me hearty lads, heave-ho. ("The Widow's Wheel."Ballad, circa 325 Mur-ro.)