Book III of the Helliconia trilogy. Helliconia is a world at the end of a reign that has lasted nearly 2000 years. The glorious civilisation that blossomed during spring and summer has faded, and the dismal wasteland of winter is rapidly destroying the human race. It is the chill at the end of the Great Year, the 2,500 year cycle in which each season gives way to a new oppressor. As winter approaches and the numbers of mankind dwindle, the barbaric phagors prepare to seize their chance and rule again. They will succeed - unless mankind can unite and stop them. Cover art by Tim Gill.