Harrowing confrontations with the merciless Ilse Witch and the monstrous Antrax have already taken their toll on the crew of the Jerle Shannara, but their darkest adversary now snaps at their heels: the Morgawr - a centuries-old sorcerer of unimaginable might, who feeds upon the souls of his enemies. With a fleet of airships and a crew of walking dead men at his command, the Morgawr is in relentless pursuit of the Jerle Shannara. His goal is two fold: to find and control the fabled ancient books of magic, and to destroy the dark disciple who betrayed him - the Ilse Witch. But the Ilse Witch has already paid a heavy price for her actions. Exposed to the awesome power of the Sword of Shannara, and forced to confront the truth of her horrifying deeds, she has fled deep into her own mind. Now at the mercy of those who seek vengeance against her, the Ilse Witch has only one protector, her long-lost brother, Bek Ohmsford, who is determined to redeem his beloved sister . . . and deliver her to the destiny predicted for her by the Druid Walker Boh.