The story of Altwaal, the original Leader of the First. The reappearance of his "lost" weapon has sparked a number of questions. Seahn investigates the mystery of Altwaal by going to the best source for rumors about the elder First...but her knowledge may come with a price he's not ready to pay. While Persha seeks answers from the mystic Orium, her quest may be cut short when Ingra finds out her daughter wants to form an alliance with the other House.