As Hollis McNeill journeys toward the twin cities, the Shadow Knight and his league of evil henchmen relentlessly pursue the wealthy merchant, intent on robbing him of his gold. Despite repeated attacks on McNeill's slow-moving column of wagons, the Shadow's ambitions have been thwarted at every turn. Standing in the way are the four intrepid adventurers Hollis hired to protect him: Gustin, a former cavalry officer; Faelintari, an elvin Blademaster; Erin, an expert archer; and Draigistar, a carefree wizard. These fiercely loyal friends whom Hollis fondly refers to as "the four," are determined to see the merchant safely to his new home. But their mission doesn't end there. Befriended by a roguish sea captain and a band of unconventional dwarven fighters, they plan to strike at the heart of evil. Armed with the location of the Shadow's secluded compound, they will take the fight to them, making the hunters the hunted. Through abductions and rescues, harrowing sea battles, and attacks by hired assassins, "the four" will face their greatest challenge yet, determined to end the Shadow Knight's reign of terror and return peace to the Eastern Kingdom.