Jacob, second son of the Merchant-Baron of Ironwood, is a stranger in his own life. None too ready for his arranged marriage, or his career as a glorified desk clerk, he takes solace in the last remaining days of his youth. However, Jacob's stifling security is shattered by theft and murder, and by the headlong chase to recover the Shield of St. Thomas. He and his hastily assembled companions soon find themselves not merely in a race against a war that threatens to sweep away his home in fire and sword, but the birth of Sorcery in Annaria - forces far beyond any mortal to face. Jacob's only hope is to recover the shield of St. Thomas, believed to be a conduit to God, before the forces of the Kharshe deity Shakath descend upon Ironwood. But even if he succeeds, will Heaven hear him?