As the Sisters of the Light train Richard to use his wizard power, the beautiful and mysterious Sister Nicci reveals a shocking secret about his hosts at the Palace of the Prophets. Elsewhere, Shota the witch woman reveals to Zedd that he has no choice but to name a new Seeker in Richard's absense. Zedd, Kahlan and Cara set out to find the person destined to next wield the Sword of Truth, while Richard, unvertain whom to trust, is forced into a dark alliance with Sister Nicci.

When Kahlan's homeland of Aydindril is taken over by the ruthless Prince Fyren. she and Zedd realize they must go to the legendary city to reclaim it from the tyrant, leaving Richard and Cara to continue the search for the Stone of Tears. However, when a magical accident occurs that seems to have stripped Kahlan of her powers, Richard soon realizes the situation is more complex--and dangerous--than it first appears.