Book excerpt: Following the deadly assault on the Scholia by the kith'ketan, Keilan and Nel pursue the paladin Senacus south, hoping to catch him before he vanishes into the Gilded Cities. Nel desires vengeance for the death of her lover, while Keilan hopes to find answers about the immortal sorcerers who sought to challenge the Crimson Queen . . . In the Empire of Swords and Flowers a young woman is called upon to avenge her father's death and return honor to her family . . . And after a millennia-long imprisonment, the monstrous Chosen are again free to work their dark will upon the world of man . . .