The machinations of King Celimus have robbed Wyl Thirsk of almost everyone he held dear, and those few who have survived will bear the scars forever. Myrren's gift offers Wyl the opportunity to strike back, but at what price? His best friend is murdered, mercenaries pillage the land in the name of his beloved Legion, and now the mad king threatens the two women who are more precious to him than life itself. He cannot save both.

The old seer's advice comes back to him: find the Manwitch. Only Myrren's natural father can help break the hold of the Quickening. But Wyl's heart pleads otherwise: protect your loved ones. Once again, it seems, Wyl Thirsk faces an impossible choice. The path ahead diverges. Left and right. Head and heart. Blood and memory. A misstep here could cost him everything ...