Gath having, at last, reached the Prince's Isle now has to face his Prince and neither he, nor those close to him, are sure of his reception. He has been joined by a new Diplomatic Aide, one Seder Hallen, whose quiet, hesitant manner is deceptive. Told here is the story of how he came to be with Gath and how, like all that meet him, fell under the spell of this extraordinary man. It is from the land of Hordosland, Hallen's native land, that the Prince, before he lifts the coronet, is traveling is the cause that brings two of the Guard - Esen Qul and Fin ahr Pr Ren - to their Prince's feet seasons later sent their by a vindictive Lord Advisor.