Consumed by guilt, Quildor Vinson returns to the Mage Tower and questions his place. He saw the signs of instability in his commander; could he have prevented the betrayal that nearly killed his comrades? When the High Mage mentions strange reports near the village of Quildor's birth, he sees a chance to take action and volunteers immediately to investigate. Though he hasn't set foot in the village for eighteen years, he has never forgotten Wren, the girl who claimed his heart when he was young. If the only woman he's ever loved is in danger, Quildor knows he cannot remain idle. Even if it means disregarding the High Mage's orders.