The sequel to the fantasy series Brotherhood by the author of The Ranger's Apprentice
Hal and the Heron Brotherhood set out in pursuit of Zavak and his ship with its precious cargo. However, they are caught in the approaching winter and must seek shelter to survive the freezing season. They'll have plenty of time to come up with a plan. But can they find the pirates when the weather improves? And if so, how will he deal with Raven and his crew of vicious killers and cutthroats? Hal and his Brotherhood of Herons have done the impossible. This group of outcasts, who no one cared about, defeated seemingly much stronger opponents and won the traditional competition of the fraternities of young Scandinavian warriors. However, the Herons' celebration comes to a short end when they are responsible for the theft of the andomal, the sacred stone of the Scandinavians. There's only one thing left to do: set sail after the robbers, try to catch up with their ship and recover the precious stone. But that means crossing stormy seas, surviving a harsh winter and battling dangerous pirates determined to defend their prey at all costs. Even the harsh training Hal and his friends have undergone as a brotherhood, and the help of one of Skandia's finest warriors, may not be enough to bring them home with andomal - or alive.