Through the machinations of an old enemy, James is summoned to appear before the Royal Court of Cardri. While there he meets with Ellinwyrd who aids him in deciphering the riddle discovered in the city of Saragon, sending him a scroll with but one word, 'Ironhold'. Having grown in the mastery of magic, he devises more intriguing and helpful devices to aid him in his quest. Old friends resurface as he continues in the search for the lost priests of Morcyth. Hunting for the location of 'Ironhold' he unravels more of the mystery as to why he is there.