Although it is not entirely to her liking, grief-stricken Satha, a
dark-skinned woman from a poor Theseni clan weds young Loic, the wealthy Doreni
son of the king's First Captain. Loic, graced with ability to see into the
hearts and minds of others, begins to help Satha overcome her sorrows. Despite
coming from different tribes, they begin to forge a life together. But when
Satha's own compassion is used against her and a treacherous enemy contrives to
dishonor her in Loic's absence, Loic's love turns to anger and disgust.
Embittered, Loic must still avenge his honor and Satha's and he sets out on a
journey that brings despair as well as spiritual discovery. Battling him are the
Arkhai, the spirits of the land who know his quest will lead him toward the God
whom they have usurped. After his departure, Satha is kidnapped, sold into
slavery and learns, first hand, how cruel the pioneering Angleni tribe can be.
Both face great hardship, danger and anguish apart, but with the Creator's aid
there remains hope they will be reunited and heal the love the world has torn
asunder.