In this sequel to Broken Wings of Black, Ygritte and Jon Snow venture into a system of caves with Ghost and Tor in an attempt to find one that will take them underneath the Wall and back to the Real North. Gendel's descendants are said to lurk deep down somewhere in forgotten shadowy caverns. The truth will change Jon and Ygritte's view of the legend and the White Walkers forever.

After Ygritte shoots Jon Snow full of arrows, he escapes with his life. Bound for Castle Black, Jon struggles with doubt and regret. Unable to shake the notion that Ygritte may be carrying his child, Jon returns to her to learn the truth: she is. What does this mean for them both? Do they have a future together? Can she ever forgive him for betraying her? Can they truly be free?