Shane, Successor to the Phantom Healer, descends to Riverbend to find his destined girl. He saves Aria Sullivan and uses the Thirteen Needles to save a Sullivan elder. Shane's prominence attracts Miles Zane's jealousy, leading to attacks. He uses martial arts and medicine, resolving a grudge with the Blackwood family. Shane uncovers his sect's past and secrets, learning Aria is his destined girl. The sealed grudges of the Phantom Healer Sect come to light. A grand game unfolds.