Book excerpt: “An action-packed and exciting finale” to the classic science fiction/fantasy trilogy from the acclaimed author of Stormwarden and Keeper of the Keys (Fantasy Literature). Jaric, the Firelord’s heir, has narrowly survived repeated attacks by the demons—psionically endowed beings—and evaded their attempts to enslave him. Now, on the Isle of Vaere, he trains for his final ordeal: mastery of the Cycle of Fire challenge that broke his father’s sanity. In the dark court of Scait, Demon Lord of Shadowfane, a vicious adversary arises to a tainted destiny. Emien retains the shape of a man, but his warped snarl of hatred and passion are controlled by a ruthless master. He is recruited to seek out human children who possess latent talent for sorcery and suborn them to further Scait’s conquest,. With Jaric’s fate uncertain, Emien’s own sister, Taen Dreamweaver, must stand on her own to defend humanity, unaware that the victims she spares are the innocent bait to lure her into the malignant thrall of Shadowfane’s overlords. Praise for Janny Wurts “Like the best of J.R.R. Tolkien, Ms. Wurts’s worlds are bursting with the primal force, brimming with unforgettable characters, infused with magic both dark and glorious.” —Eric Van Lustbader “A gifted creator of wonders.” —Raymond E. Feist “Janny Wurts brings an artist’s eye for detail and mood to the field of fantasy writing.” —Robert Lynn Asprin