The world of Ada Ev flourishes under the stewardship of the Beloran, but every now and then, for many generations of mankind, they withdraw for a period of dormancy. The care of the land and its people falls to the work of the Gifted, those who exhibit traits of the Beloran. When the stewards of Ad Ev are absent for extended periods, many doubt their teachings and follow dangerous, deadly paths. It is easiest simply to ignore old tales of the Beloran and try to live an uncomplicated life of quiet simplicity.

Paq is one of the Gifted, a Wanderer. He lives during a time of Beloran absence. He begins his first journey as a Wanderer by traveling north in response to a call that leads him into the world of the Beloran, the formidable abilities of other gifted mortals, and a brewing war between two powerful regions driven by the most powerful force ever to oppose the stewards of Ada Ev. He wants to enjoy the exciting world opening up to him all on his own, but the persistent company of an annoying Seer spoils the early days of his experience. Reluctantly, he must lead them all, at seventeen years of age.