Meanwhile, Matrim Cauthon prepares for the most difficult challenge of his life. The creatures beyond the stone gatewaysthe Aelfinn and the Eelfinnhave confused him, taunted him, and left him hanged, his memory stuffed with bits and pieces of other mens lives. He had hoped that his last confrontation with them would be the end of it, but the Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills. The time is coming when he will again have to dance with the Snakes and the Foxes, playing a game that cannot be won. The Tower of Ghenjei awaits, and its secrets will reveal the fate of a friend long lost.