Rudeus is settling into school life and growing better acquainted with the enigmatic Silent Fitz. But when his efforts to teach Zanoba hit a roadblock, his new friend proposes a drastic solution.

Newly cured and brimming with confidence, Rudeus resolves to marry Sylphie. Just one problem: he has no idea how marriage works in this world. And when friends tell him any newlywed needs a house, he winds up with a haunted mansion.

The newlyweds have settled into their new home. Next, custom dictates they throw a party for everyone they know. Preparing to host a crowd won't be easy. And even if they pull it off, the big day has surprises in store.

Rudeus receives a letter from Paul. The letter explains that Norn and Aisha, Rudeus's younger sisters, have been sent to join Rudeus. Meanwhile Nanahoshi continues her research into summoning magic for a way to return to her original world.

Rudeus's sisters arrive with an unexpected chaperone. After catching up with an old friend, Rudeus decides it's time to send the girls to school. But convincing Norn and Aisha turns out to be more trouble than he bargained for.

Life is looking up for Rudeus. His sisters are settling in, and he has plenty of time for friends and family... until an announcement from Sylphie and an unexpected letter upend his idyllic school life.

With Nanahoshi's help, Rudeus gains a way to shorten his journey, but he and Elinalise will still need to hurry if they hope to return before Sylphie gives birth. Their first obstacle: the harsh desert of Begaritt and its monstrous denizens.

Rudeus arrives home, frantic that something may have gone wrong in his absence. But the conversations waiting for him may become disasters in their own right. How can he introduce a new wife to a family still reeling from Paul's death?