Awakening in the middle of the night to a psychic cry from his twin, Lon, Karis persuades a reluctant Malin (his cousin) to accompany him on a three week journey to the king's palace in Mythro. Karis has learned that his family are now prisoners in their own home, and in dire straits. Only immediate action can save them. Then, if they are successful at freeing the royal prisoners, they will have the doubtful opportunity of making a flying trip south to safety with a fully mounted pursuit behind them.