Finally free of his chains, Rayne spreads the news of being the Light Bringer. But something lurks away from the light. His cousin has evil in store from him, stealing Rayne's life. As relations with his parents and cousin escalate, Rayne receives word from the One. He is to go to Veres with his friends. But when they arrive, they find that Rayne's cousin has informed the powerful Lord William of their journey there. Lord William captures them and splits them up. As Rayne's friends are taken away for slave work, he is forced to fight in the ring. His opponent? Yormund. The fight was a death sentence in itself, but Rayne is saved by a man named Shin. Before Rayne suffers any more, he is kidnapped yet again. This time, his captor is a girl by the name of Lexi and her friends. They take Rayne away, wanting to kill him because of what he did in his years as an assassin - ruined Lexi's father's life. But the One speaks to them, and they delay his sentencing. Instead, they leave to rescue Rayne's friends. After a successful rescue mission, they receive word from the One, who tells them to travel to Caarwyn Rill, in the mountains. Once they arrive, they are greeted by the Elders, one of which goes by Jiro and is Shin's brother. While most of the Elders trust the newcomers, two in particular, First Elder Tegan and Elder Powell, have their doubts. How could one so young be trusted to unite the seven scrolls? But they put their trust in the One after he reveals his own confidence in Rayne, and they grant him access to where the scroll can be found. Rayne retrieves the scroll with the help of an ancient named Ari. When he returns to Caarwyn Rill, however, he finds danger.

Wow! I loved the first book, but this one is even better. The story is smooth and blends well, and there's a good balance of action, dialogue, and some more subdued moments. The descriptions C.S. Wachter uses brings the world of Veres to life, and the dialogue is witty and makes sense. This book had the benefit of a firm line to follow after the first book paved the way, and it does an incredible job of that! There were some unexpected directions the story took, but they were all enjoyable. This book seems to take itself less seriously, and as such, it creates a much lighter, delightful experience. If Wachter continues with this quality of writing, I will definitely be reading some more.

I recommend this book to any and all who like fantasy. Even if you don't but you appreciate a good story, read this! If you read and liked the first book, you will love this one all the more. I couldn't believe how much it had improved on an already great story. Wow!