In the Six Duchys, dissension broke out between the coastal territories, which had to endure the incessant attacks of the Red Pirates, and the interior of the lands which was disinterested in their fate. Meanwhile at the court, the atmosphere was treason, lies and violence. The old King Subtil, manipulated by Royal, died slowly. Fitz had great difficulty in protecting the beings dear to him... not to mention the dangers that threatened him personally! The king-servant Truth decided to undertake a senseless quest: to go and find the Ancients, beyond the mountains, to remind them of their oath. His only hope was to convince them to come to the aid of the kingdom which saw its darkest hours...