Years ago, they freed a dragon from the glaciers on Aslevjal. Then they parted, the Fool returning to Clerres, while Fitz finally claimed a wife, a family, and a home of his own. Now, betrayed and broken, the Fool has made his way back to the Six Duchies. But as Fitz attempts to heal his old friend in Buckkeep Castle his young daughter Bee is abducted from Withywoods by mysterious raiders who leave ruin and confusion in their wake. Robin Hobb returns to her best loved characters!