The arrival of a dangerous sorcerer forces Gavin to confront his past.
As Gavin works with the El'aras to master his connection to the ring, he learns of an El'aras prophecy that speaks of the Shard and a Champion.
One must destroy the other.
Though Gavin doesn't believe in prophecy, he can't deny that he's caught up in something greater than he understands—and begins to suspect he's been guided toward his fate.
The arrival of a powerful sorcerer tests Gavin's belief. If he can't stop the Sul'toral, he might have no choice but to fulfill the ancient prophecy and destroy someone he's come to deeply care about.