The assassination of High King Salanor forces war with the Vancor. Though few still believe, elves long for the coming of the long foretold purehearted high king of The Prophecy.

Acknowledging their disobedience, repentant elves in all realms cry out to the Elandara for forgiveness and deliverance. The immortal guardians call not only forgive, they call forth the Comarion of old-immense immortal beasts of great power. But victory in battle does not turn hearts from the evil paths chosen by many.

Orphaned by the Vancor, Dontan, a young elf in Kanya, struggles against deprivation and violent abuse-helpless in the care of an older sister, Carna, who hates the responsibility and hates him. Raised as her servant-beaten, cursed, and often deprived of food, he has grown up convinced of his utter worthlessness. Completely under her control, Dontan journeys to Domethian, charged with executing the murder of a young elf maiden in the citadel of the high king.