Having completed the Academy of High Magic in the program «Necromancy,» the nuthatch (Neayasyty) sets off across the continent to fulfill his direct duties—to lay restless cemeteries to rest. Difficulties and dangers only grow along his path, and the choice between Light and Darkness becomes ever more difficult. Fess must fight not only the dark forces threatening all living things, but also constantly run into the Inquisition in the person of a fanatical preacher, Father Etlau. A half-elf girl, a novice of the Temple of Swords called Rys, an orc, and a dwarf accompany Fess to Narn, the abode of the Dark elves. And soon the necromancer learns what pride leads to—and why you mustn’t make irresponsible decisions toward friends, comrades, and fellow travelers.