For over a decade, Mikael Lee has been a prisoner to his dreams. Like many of his Vandriyen ancestors, he's gifted with prophetic dreams, but his only ever seem to foretell death. But his life is changing, and with a new year he'll have a wife-Shironne Anjir. Her gift allows her to walk into his dreams and to help him understand the portents he sees.

Everything around the couple is changing as well. In a step that will alter the political dynamics of the country, the Families have decided that it's time for them to share their Fortress' knowledge with the country at large. The king will be adding a new province, shaking up the political status quo, and a recalcitrant lord is on the brink of ruin.

All their plans are shaken with Mikael's uncle is apparently murdered, vaulting Mikael into the spot of Vandriyen heir, something he has never wanted. There is a way around that, but it will take a leap of faith...