Description:The war between Pleminar and Skala continues. There are growing rumors that Skala's ancient ally, Mycena, is about to join with the wealthier Pleminar, cutting Skala off from all trade routes. Now Alec and Seregil are sent on their most daring mission yet: convince the people of Aurenen, who exiled Seregil years ago, to join Skala and end the war. But when the Queen dies in the middle of negotiations, Alec and Seregil are left in a morass of shifting alliances, until it is impossible to tell friend from foe.