As he journeys across the Gulf of Corona to the wild lands of Vanguard in search of his long-lost father, Bransen Garibond becomes caught up in a desperate and dangerous battle against the brutal Samhaist, Ancient Badden.

"War has come to Fireach Speur. The once forgotten Xoconai empire has declared war upon the humans west of the mountains, and their first target are the people of Loch Beag. Lead by the peerless Tzatzini, all that stands in the way of the God Emperor's grasp of power is Aoelyn, Talmadge, and their few remaining allies. But not all hope is lost. Far away from Fireach Speuer, an ancient tomb is uncovered by Brother Thaddeus of the Abellican Church....