The Lord of the Hells has damaged the barriers between the ancient wilderness and the world of man, and that wilderness has begun to seep into mortal lands. His war to rule the entirety of the mortal world has begun.

ONE KINGDOM STANDS AGAINST THE FALL OF THE WEST

The kingdom of Breodanir is in turmoil. Even the merchant roads in the heart of Breodanir can become wild, unknown places between one step and the next; some have walked those roads, never to return. Now, more than ever, Breodanir has need of Hunter Lords as symbols of strength and stability.

Stephen of Maubreche and his huntbrother Nenyane have been summoned in disgrace to the King's City. They, and other hunters who have rejected Hunter oaths, are to be schooled in the necessity of the oaths they've rejected.

If only it were that simple.

The problem students soon find themselves tested against the forces of the wilderness, the shadows of demons-and even each other.

If they fail these tests, Breodanir will fall-and the entirety of the West will become the Lord of the Hells' domain.