L. E. Modesitt, Jr. continues the Saga of Recluce, the long-running, best-selling epic fantasy series.

Alayiakal, who will one day be known by many names - not all of them flattering - has to climb the ranks of Cyador’s Mirror Lancers, fighting against unforeseen weapons and ancient technology. Alayiakal, however, has secrets of his own to protect: his ties to the Great Forest and his magus abilities. He must silently pretend to be a conventional soldier favoured by fate - until that very same fate forces him to choose.