Darken Rahl plots his return to the land of the living, using a hapless look-alike; the Seeker races to find a stolen scroll, which holds the key to his quest for the Stone of Tears.

Resurrected Darken Rahl risks the Keeper's wrath by acquiring the secrets of an ancient scroll, forcing the Seeker into an uneasy alliance with his evil brother.

In order to save the world of the living, Richard finally faces his greatest enemy and Kahlan may have to kill the love of her life.