Now that Lindon and Yerin are both part of the Aurelius family, they finally have the support they need to grow their power as Sacred Artists. Of course for Lindon, that growth is likely to come too late as circumstances have resulted in him being committed to a duel to the death in one year's time against Jai Long, a much more powerful sacred artist. With the support of Eithan Aurelius, Lindon might be able to close the gap with Jai Long's current rank, but unfortunately for him, Jai Long is also growing in power and there is no possible way for Lindon to catch up in time. Lindon tries to focus on his training, but political maneuvering between the Jai clan and the Aurelius clan are likely to get in the way.

I must admit the story has finally grabbed me, and Eithan's entry into the story has made all the difference. Especially as we start to understand why Eithan, an Underlord of one the more powerful clans, chose to take in Lindon and Yerin based solely on their future potential. Seeing Lindon finally grow in power and selecting a path to follow as a sacred artist adds a very needed dimension to his character, and the same is true for Yerin, as she struggles to advance after the death of her former master. Eithan has a plan for both of them, but Eithan himself is still a giant mystery and learning more about him is also satisfying. And finally, Blackflame also begins to tie together the larger story of the Abidan Court of Judges (god-like creatures that monitor and alter the universe) and the impact they are having on the events unfolding on Cradle. 

I continue to listen to Travis Baldree's narration at ,95x speed and have grown more comfortable with his performance. His does have an excellent range of voices, it is only his pacing that I originally struggled with.