The book follows on from the previous novel, with Elayne Trakand, Nynaeve al'Meara, Aviendha, and the coalition reversing the heatwave caused by the Dark One’s manipulation of the climate. They are attacked by the Seanchan’s, forcing them to flee to Andor, where Elayne is able to claim the Lion Throne.
At the same time, Perrin Aybara is attempted to stop the rise of the Prophet of the Dragon. However, he accidentally ends up saving Queen Morgase of Andor, which allows him to form an oath with Alliandre, Queen of Ghealdan.
Meanwhile, the rebel leader, Egwene al'Vere, manages to gain more power and control by laying siege to the White Tower. Rand al'Thor attempts to stop the Seanchan invasion in Altara by wielding Callandor. However, the sword makes his crazy and leaves him weakened to be attacked by Corlan Dashiva, where the book ends on a cliffhanger.
