The Open Eye

          This installment opens with Prometh finding herself in captivity of Kasikan.  She struggles to regain her memory as she has been locked away in the self-deprivation tank for over a month as Kasikan’s way to control her.  There have been adverse effects from the nightmares she faces while in there.

          Eric, traveling on his own seeks out and finds Del and Tristan who have been locked in their own torments from the Ghosts of the White Wood.  Once revived and with their strength recouped the three of them go into the heart of Niwrad to attempt a rescue of Prometh.

          Back up in the North Alter works to release the clutches of the Empire from the people starting with the most powerful of the dominions, Bele.  He may not directly intercede in the affairs of the people as part of his oath to be councilor.  His only choice is to try and show the people the fallacies of the Empire’s teachings.  The poorer classes are easily reached, but he can do little against the powers of The Ambassador.  Alter does learn something important while dealing with Nyx and his advisors.  He notices the nervous twitch they have acquired since having the Cerida Beetle placed on the back of their necks which The Ambassador uses to be in constant control of their actions.  His realization is too late as he is locked away in the bowels of the castle to see what may come.

          Tristan, Del and Eric put together a daring rescue to free Prometh and barely make it outside the clutches of Kasikan.  They discover the Prometh has changed in her time spent deprived of all sensations and has come more into her own strength having powers that far exceed anything she has done before.  They use this to their advantage and reunite with the remaining Bannie which are still loyal to Furh to stage an attack on the castle, which creates enough of a distraction, that The Four gain entry and confront Kasikan directly in their final battle with him.

          This book holds a few surprises for the reader as characters show what they are truly made of especially towards the end of the book.  Who will stand out on top and who will be left behind?