Elias Thornhart spends ten years posing as a shepherd and prince consort while secretly defending the Ravencrest Empire and its ruler, Selene Ravencrest. Convinced by Grand General Garrick Voss that Elias is worthless and disloyal, Selene turns against him and ends their marriage bond. Elias leaves to restore the weakening Starward Aegis, accompanied by young Tessa Briar. Along the way, he gains allies among mages, dwarves, elves, and the sea folk, while Selene faces the consequences of losing the man who protected her.
Elias learns that his parents were Emperor Oryn and Queen Elaris and uncovers the betrayal behind the rise of the Void Regent. When the darkness threatens the continent, his allies unite in a final battle. Selene survives to confront her mistakes and rebuild her kingdom, while Elias moves on with his life.
