Synopsis: The destiny of kings - For three centuries the Rhomandi family has ruled in Rhomatum, the city whose magical leythium node is the richest in the world, more powerful than even that of rival city Mauritum. And with the passing years Rhomatum has become the most influential of all the Ring cities. But ancient hatreds have finally led to war, overturning the delicate balance of power, devastating the leythium-controlling Ring Towers of many city-states, fragmenting Rings, leaving satellite cities in darkness, and breaking down the very basis of civilization. And now, three telepathically linked brothers, the heirs to the Rhomandi dynasty, must desperately strive to regain stability and supremacy for their city. Deymorin - Eldest brother. Princeps of Rhomatum, he has always rejected his natural Talent. With his world in shambles, will he have the courage to awaken his magical Gift and accept his destiny to become the greatest Ringmaster in history? Mikhyel - call "the barrister", his world is the dark underworld of political machinations. A cutthroat negotiator and skilled statesman, he has nevertheless been hiding from his true destiny: as that rarest of magicians - one who can handle the deadly leythium itself and speak directly with the strange beings who dwell within it. Nikaenor - as the youngest brother, he is beloved by all but has never been taken seriously. Now, at eighteen, he is about to become a father - to a son who has been prophesied to become a Ringmaster of legendary power. Can he somehow unite his family and, with the birth of his son, finally accept his own responsibilities? (from the back cover of the DAW Books first edition)