Nathan and Suzanne reign over united Kar-Neloth. The Mari priestesses lend their powerful support to serve the empress. Grapland is suspicious, fearful of the implications concerning the rise of the Engwar and the presence of the Mari. They send a delegation to Silver Lake in a gesture of compliance and a mission of investigation. In the midst of attempting to gain political stability, the Mari discover a source of magic that even they cannot understand. As they search for answers, they awaken an enemy who has been dormant for eons, waiting for the Seawalkers to be revealed. As he stirs, he unleashes unimaginable power trying to find the Seawalkers before the Mari can help them relearn their heritage. Nathan and Suzanne use the resources of the empire to help discover the identity of the Seawalkers in time to save the empire and its allies before their ancient foe regains his full strength. "Speak to me thy mind," Suzanne encouraged him. He shook his head. "We have spread our efforts far and wide. We search desperately across many miles, and yet none of our efforts have yielded what is needed. I fear to expend more effort. Times become desperate among the islands, and we can do naught. We are not ready, Suzanne, to face this unknown foe, and yet he breathes down upon our lands, our allies, our shores with cruel ferocity. I am at a loss. Tell me what more we can do, for mine efforts have had no effect." When evil threatens and engages in ways that disguise its source, power, and identity, what weapons do you bring to bear? What is there to rely on other than your strength of character and belief in the values you hold dear? About the Author Born in England, Michael C. Beard had the great fortune of living in Europe for several years as one of three children of a U.S. Air Force family. He has wonderful memories of beautiful mountains, rivers, and old castles. He believes those experiences are partially responsible for his love of fantasy worlds and history. Michael has two graduate degrees in ancient languages and linguistics and has taught theoretical linguistics. He has worked on the corporate side of the writing world and has spent several years in the technology field. He also teaches online for the University of Phoenix and spends time trying his hand at photography. Michael lives in Tucson, Arizona. Visit the Kar-Neloth website at www.karneloth.com for additional information about the book, characters, and more!