When his father is killed by an erupting firehill, Kelber vows to put an end to the devastation they cause. The only one with enough power to do this is Orland's First Loyal, the one who provides a connection to the Eternal One and a possessor of great magic. But the First Loyal has been missing for two years. Despite that Orland and Prand are not on friendly terms, Kelber and his brother Trendarmon cross the dangerous sea to ask advice from Prand's First Loyal. Second Loyals, Chaff and Haeli, are sent to assist Kelber in his quest.
Kelber, Trendarmon and the Prandian Loyals face fire lizards, glowing avalanches, and vicious spies during their trek. Haehli falls in love with Trendarmon, and Kelber also meets his true love, though the relationships are sure to bring heartache given the rivaling countries they come from.
When Kelber and his companions ascertain how Orland's First Loyal has been imprisoned, they set out to free him. Surrounded by erupting firehills, the Loyals are forced to fight the Non--the antithesis if the Eternal One--in a tremendous battle between good and evil. Who will triumph?