Cirrus@Austlit

'An eons-long battle has been taking place between the two sentient species of the world of the soldier, Shanek, and the outcast Hwenfayre. Instrumental in the fighting, and key to the victory of humanity, were three powerful sorcerers. When they departed, they left their powers behind to watch over the human world ...

'Now the enemy is reawakening, but the sorcerous powers have not only fallen into disuse, they have been forgotten ... the three who hold these powers at this time are quite unaware of their latent abilities, and of their significance.' (Publisher's blurb)

'A land of mystery ... a corrupt society ... rare gifts which have been ignored and forgotten ..

'Hwenfayre has discovered the extraordinary powers of the driftwood harp left to her by a stranger - her father. But unless she learns self-control and discipline, the powers of the harp will continue to consume her.

'The First Son, Shanek, hunts down the ancient enemy of the Empire. But he is lost to his people, and as his power grows he is taken further and further from the world he knows - and from the person he once was.

'On Tanissan, a man with many names is scheming for the downfall of the Triumvirate and the world it protects ... and a boy who has never met his father discovers his true inheritance.

'And Aldere continues a journey that will have greater consequences than he could ever imagine ...' (Publisher's blurb, back cover)