Dunolt, the usurping emperor of Palatia, has vanished, and the powerful, magical Gealstone has vanished with him. Now, perhaps, the rightful rulers of Palatia, Prince Adlin and Princess Adelina, can end the war that Dunolt has started. But Adlin summons an ancient source of evil that threatens to destroy him, and Adelina races one step ahead of the assassins trying to kill her. Meanwhile, the armies that have risen against Dunolt fight among themselves over their own source of magic. Who will pay the price to wield the power that will save their kingdoms--or bring them to ruin?