Alexa, princess of Byzantium, was destined to rule with her devoted brother Marric until the evil forces cast dark magic upon her and made herbetray him. Thus, Marric feels under assault, a usurper has seized the throne and, by means both magical and moral, defeated Alexa. Saved by warrior allies, Alexa has been taken to an unfamiliar northern land. Convinced of Marric's death, she is consumed by guiltand fear. Even from afar, the usurper's power reaches out to trap her. Savage dreams agonize her nights, prophecies of doom upset her days, and the fiery magic runs wild within her soul. Alexa's only hope lies amidst the Druids of the distant Misty Isles. They alone can cleanse her of the darkness that infects her and teach her to use her powers well. But Alexa must learn more than just the secrets of the Druids, for within her hands and heart lie the very survival of Penilyn itselfand the fate of Byzantium.