The book that started it all - the first novel by GRRM. The plea from his childhood love Gwen leads Dirk t'Larien to the dying world of Worlorn. But when he arrives, it seems Gwen has changed her mind and tries to send him away, as she loves her husband Jaan. However, with marriage, she has also entered a culture that does not allow women any autonomy. Dirk cannot believe that she has chosen this fate willingly, and he actually manages to persuade her to escape. But with her betrayal of Jaan, they have also given up his protection, and hunters are closing in on them. Only one person can still save them - but for Jaan, his honor is more important than anything else...