Outcast orphan and royal advisor—philosopher warrior and mystic scientist—throughout his long, event-filled life Nazhuret has wished no more than to distance himself from the bloody intrigues of nations. But now, in the twilight of his years, Destiny is thrusting Nazhuret yet again into war's seething cauldron—calling the diminutive lens grinder and his cherisheddaughter Nahvah out of exile and into a perilous world of ghosts, sea monsters and human treachery. For the land of his birth is in turmoil folliwing the assassination of Nazhuret's old friend, the King. And the reluctang hero must fulfill one lst and terrible obligation—on and adventure that wil sorely test his wisdom, his courage…and his noble spirit.