A long, dark winter has struck Selasdur. Once thought to be cured from Wasting, Lady Ilare seems to be sick again, stalked by a dark spirit who will not surrender her unto life.

Patrician Malor conspires with the enemy to murder Lord Mayor Corvin, seeking to liberate their land of the Kovenor curse. Decades of plotting are finally coming to a climax. Malor will see Corvin's heart fed to the Dwarrow -- knowing that he must also die beside Corvin.