The kingdom of Hyarch has become divided by a bitter war over the dominion of the realm, tearing families and friends apart. Even after many years and countless lives lost, the battles continue with no signs of peace to be found. The Spellking, following in the footsteps of his father, seeks to impose the reign of magic wielders across the kingdom. The House of Roderick, a new dynasty rising to take the place of the old, has banned most forms of magic in turn. Amid this conflict, a new generation comes of age. Far removed from the battles waged to shape the kingdom's future, in the town of Hallowscroft, four young men and women are drawn together. A young noblewoman nurturing a hidden talent faces a sudden betrayal, while a fugitive thaumaturge seeks to make amends for horrible misdeeds. A journeyman healer returns home to seek a family they may never have had, while a warrior bearing the scars of battle must decide between duty and love. Only by standing as one can they hope to oppose the shadowy menace that threatens the town. But secrets lay hidden in Hallowscroft, terrible truths far older than anyone can remember...ones that could herald the kingdom's end...