Far from the civilising influence of King Arthur's court of noble knights, northern Britain is convulsed by feuding kings.
Raised in a wilderness sanctuary, Ailein enters a world beset by fierce warlords who would tear the very earth apart to have their way. Others are drawn into their violent clashes like leaves caught in a whirlwind.
He falls in love and seeks to shield his sweetheart from encircling dangers. But his wishes count for nothing. He has a talent those who set the rules are determined to exploit. Is it possible to escape the vice-like grip of all-powerful tyrants?
Ailein is a legendary tale with a recurring resonance; the fate of all is decided by the self-serving, often capricious, designs of very few.