Years ago, they freed a dragon from the glaciers on Aslevjal. Then they parted, the Fool returning to far-off Clerres, while Fitz finally claimed a wife, a family, and a home of his own.

Now, betrayed and broken, the Fool has made his way back to the Six Duchies. But as Fitz attempts to heal his old friend in Buckkeep Castle his young daughter Bee is abducted from Withywoods by mysterious raiders who leave ruin and confusion in their wake.

Fitz must rescue his beloved Bee. At the same time the Fool is determined that Fitz travel with him to Clerres to wreak vengeance. Fitz must grimly take up his assassin's tools once more, but will he also be forced to choose between saving his child and avenging his dearest friend?