Just as spring approaches and Will and Evanlyn can finally escape Skandia, Evanlyn is carried off by mysterious horsemen. Will sets out after them, but one boy against six fierce Temujai warriors is impossible odds - even for a Ranger's apprentice. Halt and Horace arrive just in time. But there is no time to celebrate as Halt realises these Temujai are only the scouts for a massive invasion force. The four Araluens must work together with the Skandians to defeat the invaders - if the Oberjarl will accept their help.