The second in the thrilling fantasy series returning readers to the Six Duchies and the magical world of the Farseers; from the author of the bestselling Assassin's Apprentice. Fitz has succeeded in rescuing Prince Dutiful from the clutches of the Piebald rebels; and has returned with him to Buckkeep castle. With Dutiful safe again; Queen Kettricken can proceed with plans to marry him to the Outislander princess; Elliania; but with tensions building among the peoples of the Six Duchies over Kettricken's tolerance of the Wittted; even Buckkeep is no longer safe. A reluctant Fitz is assigned to protect the young prince; and also train him in the Skill; and in doing so he finally makes contact not only with his estranged daughter; Nettle; but with someone in Buckkeep who may possess a greater Skill talent than Fitz. And who may represent a terrible threat to the Farseers. Meanwhile; Elliania arrives; and before she will accept Prince Dutiful's betrothal challenges him to undertake an impossible quest. He must kill a legendary Outislander dragon.