Having found the true power of her blade, Imogen must use it to protect her people. After preventing her brother from taking the power of the Porapeth and becoming the very thing her people have defended against, Imogen now chases him, believing he can still be saved. When a dangerous creature not seen in centuries emerges and begins to hunt those with magic, Imogen fears her brother responsible. Stopping these creatures involves an understanding of the sacred patterns Imogen hasn’t fully mastered, and requires her to protect those the Leier have long warred with. They need a true master of the sacred patterns, which means the First of the Blade must become something more. She must find a way to lead.