Aern Bradley, the youngest son of the royal family, was sent away for training just like all his brothers before him. However, his path took a turn that changed the direction of his life. He devotes his life to working from the shadows, a master poisoner, with only a gryphon as his most trusted friend. The mages far to the north have always been an enigma to the people of Aern's lands, but there's more going on to connect the two peoples than most know. When trouble reaches his own family, the mages join forces with Drikelldorn's royal family. All the while, Fate and Luck seem to be plotting another course for Aern. He deserves his heart's desire... if he only becomes aware of what that is. Poisons, a gryphon, a ship, mages, and war all shape the man he becomes.