Count Hamnet Thyssen is a minor noble of the drowsy old Raumsdalian Empire. Its capital city, Nidaros, began as a mammoth hunters' camp at the edge of the great Glacier. But, that was centuries ago, and as everyone knows, it's the nature of the great Glacier to withdraw a few feet every year. Now Nidaros is an old and many-spired city; and though they still feel the breath of the great Glacier in every winter's winds, the ice cap itself has retreated...

As Ayla studies to become a spiritual leader to Jondalar's people, the Zelandonii, she faces many challenges, including being separated from Jondalar and their young daughter, Jonayla, and experiences a revelation.

"Marked as tabat--the unlucky one--Kai and his wolf, Uff, must brave the long winter together and learn what it takes to survive on their own"--

When Wolf is taken by the Soul-Eaters, Torak must infiltrate their clan to bring him back.