When a dying dragon falls from the sky, an exiled elf becomes the sole bearer of a warning that could destroy kingdoms.

Ardiil Silverrivers has spent centuries hiding among humans, allowing time to erode the life he abandoned-a life of honor, duty, and love he could no longer face. But when a mortally wounded dragon crashes into a farmer's field and utters a single ancient name with its dying breath, Ardiil's long exile ends violently.

The creature's death is impossible.

Its warning even more so.

A legendary darkness-one the elves claim to have destroyed ages ago-is stirring back into the world. And the only person who understood the dragon's final words is the elf who fled his homeland in shame.

Bound by a duty he never wanted, Ardiil rides north toward the lands he once called home, uncertain whether he will be welcomed, recognized, or condemned. Along the road he will cross paths with unlikely allies-among them Asior, a human mage who seeks the truth behind the omen, and Foltag, a panicked goblin warrior whose fear of the "Unspeakable One" hides wounds of his own.

But the first steps of this quest are taken alone, guided only by honor, regret, and the ancient language of a dying dragon.

As war rises, beasts grow bolder, and kings question old legends, Ardiil must confront the past he fled if he hopes to save the world that forgot him.

Perfect for fans of The Lord of the Rings, Eragon, Raymond E. Feist, and Tad Williams' epic fantasies.

The dragon has fallen.

The warning has been given.

And an exiled elf must bear it-or watch the world burn.