Akarat, the ancient legend whose teachings spawned the Zakarum faith, has risen from death. He claims he has returned to spread peace, love, and the Light. His powers healed the leader of the Fox Tribe, and now the barbarians are amongst his most loyal followers. All but Derris. Though his people have sworn themselves to Akarat and the Light, Derris knows that the cycle of violence consumes Sanctuary sooner or later-an opinion shared by the mysterious Vrexia, another skeptic swept up in Akarat's caravan. But when assassins come to slaughter Akakrat, Derris must either save the holy man... or watch his tribe be cut down.