Book one of the “Tales of the Lonely Raven” series. 56 year of the era of the Shattered Principalities. Once the most powerful empire in Sangenum's history, it has fallen. Four countries that arose from the ruins of a great state waged a continuous struggle for power on the continent. And, it would seem, peace was eventually established... But even it turns out to be fragile, and the flames of war flare up with renewed vigor. The young princes, who until recently were children, have to make a choice on which the fate of the entire country will depend.