The steerswomen were collectors of knowledge, and whatever they learned was free for the asking. The wizards also had knowledge, but they jealously guarded their dark wisdom. The two groups do not agree, do not converse, do not associate. Now the steerswoman Rowan has uncovered evidence that the master wizard is conjuring dangerous spells, devastating the Outskirts and changing the course of the world. He must be stopped - if he can even be found. Following a dubious clue, Rowan and Bel have come to the city of Donner, seeking answers from the past for a danger in the present. But the secret goes deeper than Rowan had imagined. Has she been asking the wrong questions?