In an age without dragons, elves rule the world. Dwarves are mystical craftsmen, humans are big and strong, and halflings breed explosively, but none of them can match elves for sheer magical firepower. Angrod Veneanar is a young elf. He's nearing the end of a long apprenticeship and looking forward to going home. As a nobleman he loves wine and women-he doesn't care at all about shadow conspiracies, forgotten magics, or long-lost royal heirs. Unfortunately, there is a prophecy, and it looks like he's in it. Now he's on the run. Accused of murder, what seems like the entire kingdom wants him dead. He has knights, mages, and even arcane assassins on his trail. Worse, something is riding in his head and threatening to take over his body. To survive, Angrod must use all his skill in weapons and wizardry. He must find new allies and uncover fresh strength. And if he is to stand a chance of defeating his greatest enemy, he must rediscover a master spell that's been lost for centuries. If he doesn't, he's just going home-to die.