Ero of the Gotkasi has trained since childhood to wield the Sword of Tanyr in service to his people and their Goddess. As Captain of the Demonwatch, Champion of the House of Athus, he stands ready to defend his homeland against the encroaching Shadow. When Juen, Queen of Vabia, opens negotiations with her kingdom’s hereditary enemy, she finds the Champion of Athus wary and cold. She, too, fears the Champion and his motivation, but has no choice. With her people threatened, she must do everything in her power to protect them. Even if she must tolerate the snide hostility of the so-called ‘Hero.’ As always, Ero submits to his Goddess’ will – Leave Athus? Woo the queen? – yet he resents the constraints placed on him. The Betrayer grows stronger with each passing day. Vabia’s political machinations only delay the inevitable clash between Hero and Shadow. But the Betrayer knows this battle well. Fought time again through the ages, Maiek has prepared for the coming of the Hero. This time betrayal, both mortal and divine, will finally break the ancient cycle. And the Hero with it.