Illegal sorcery is on the rise. The quiet life Jon once had before venturing to the capital is but a distant memory. Murderous threats to the throne skulk through city streets. A rebellious army is growing.

But the king—the overwhelmed ruler of Lycast who Jon has sworn to protect—is just one of many targets. The mages who use this illegal sorcery have a leader, and this leader wants something from Jon.

It wasn't long ago that Jon came to the castle with seven other sorcerers desperate to prove themselves. While Jon considers many of them his friends, at least one might actually be his enemy.

Those plotting against the king are everywhere, most posing as ordinary citizens. During the hunt for these sorcerers, Jon will learn just how powerful his own sorcery can become, but at what cost? Sacrifices must be made no matter Jon's choices. Whatever he decides to do, it has to be done quickly. The traitor in the castle is waiting for something, and no one seems to have any idea what it is.