<p> In the frozen northlands of the embattled realm of Midkemia, fate can form strange alliances. </p> <p> It is nine long, bloody years into the ongoing Riftwar that is tearing Midkemia asunder. Having survived a disastrous encounter with their sworn enemy, the Tsurani, Dennis Hartraft's cold, hungry, and exhausted Marauders arrive at a frontier garrison—at the same time as a Tsurani patrol. But a more devastating threat resides within the stronghold: <i>moredhel</i>, a migrating horde of dark elves so deadly and vicious that the only hope for survival is if bitter enemies band together and fight as one. </p> <p> Now two hostile groups must make their way to freedom, facing a common foe, braving the merciless elements, and haunted by the voice of conscience demanding, <i>"what is more important, a man's life . . . or his honor?"</i> </p>