October, 1093. At her mentor's urgent request, Lassair is accompanying Gurdyman across the sea to Spain. But why is he insistent on embarking on this difficult and dangerous journey just as winter approaches? And why does he seem so afraid? As the pair reach the remote mountainous regions of northern Spain, Lassair will be tested as never before.

October, 1093. At her mentor's urgent request, Lassair is accompanying Gurdyman across the sea to Spain. But why is he insistent on embarking on this dangerous journey just as winter approaches? Could there be any connection to the vagrant found lying dead outside his home, a single pearl clutched in his outstretched hand?