This is the sequel to "The Crusade of Stone and Stars."The conflict between the people of Arx and the people of Nihilus continues. The Arxians, having conquered Nihilus, have appointed the iron-fisted Duke Jachai to rule over the land of their enemies. His ruthlessness has only fueled the flames of rebellion in Nihilus, and tensions are rising.Ardal, a former professor of Nihilite magic, has discovered that he has a terminal illness that may require him to seek help from his worst enemies in order to cure.