Rescued from the desert, Vulfrey resumes his journey westward toward Ashtilov, now accompanied by his trusty bodyguard Gajdren and the enigmatic brothel matron, Adrelynn. And, of course, Kaill...the foolhardy farmboy who'd barged into his life and risked his own time and again to protect him. The goal to find Archpriest Armundil that Vulfrey might finally fulfill his destiny as the Vessel?to complete the Ascension and return Vahndestrus to the world at long last.

Along the way, he begins to nurture his newly discovered gifts, learning to wield the power of his blood. While too the distraction of Kaill's presence and the feelings buried deep inside continue to grow all the more difficult to ignore. Yet despite his heart's desire, fulfilling the Ascension means sacrificing his very life?love but a selfish temptation he could never be permitted.

As Vulfrey grapples with heart and duty and the allure of untold power rooted within his blood, a fetid darkness begins to descend upon the lands of Dylinthae. With the Ascension hanging by a mere thread, the very Vahndriin faith in crisis, a reunion comes that he has both longed for and feared...