A strange noblewoman arrives in a remote mountain village, claiming one of five youths is the reincarnation of an ancient power who once destroyed the world – and will do so again, if she’s not able to discover which of them it is. But they all have less time than they think.

Nynaeve and Elayne are given a deadly mission. Perrin learns the consequences of his rage. Lanfear begins to play a dangerous game.

Tensions flare between Egwene and Rand. Moiraine and Lan come to terms with their destiny.

Perrin begins to embrace his role as a leader among the people of the Two Rivers.