With his duel fast approaching, Lindon is locked away in prison. As a Blackflame, he is too dangerous to remain free. The Skysworn, protectors of the Empire, have imprisoned him to keep him under control until the day of his promised fight arrives. When it does, he will face Jai Long. But a new danger approaches the Empire, closer every day. One of the Dreadgods stirs, earlier than predicted, and even a brush with such a creature could be the end of the Blackflame Empire. Only the Skysworn stand between the people of the land and total annihilation. And Lindon may be forced to join them.