Returning home from the academy after seventy years, Lelaurinel finds she must now use all her powers and influence to stop a shadow bedecked plot to assassinate her mother, the Narista, ruler of the Elishar. Who better to uncover those who would hide in shadows than one who was born to bend shadows themselves to her will? Heir to an exiled kingdom, Ahzure swore that she would one day lead he people back to their place in the world as the stars' children. If she moves too soon, it could be treason, but if she waits, it could mean disaster. The life of a pack merchant is hard, it's true, though Glen lives well enough by his wits. But when he crosses too close to the Frozen Spires, he brushes up against secrets older than nations.