A different wind

Wisdom, courage, and an open heart. The final instalment of the Earthsea saga connects to the previous books through familiar characters – the Archmage Ged, his companion Tenar, and her daughter Tehanu. They offer their advice to the new King Lebannen in his fight against the dragons, though the young sorcerer Alder also plays a meritorious role. The sixth instalment of the Earthsea saga concludes one of the most significant cycles in world fantasy. Instead of brutal battles and action scenes, mages, sorcerers, and strong women strive to maintain the land's fragile balance. Their actions are guided by wisdom, courage, and an open heart. In the final part, the rule of Earthsea, which had been without a ruler for centuries, is taken up by the young King Lebannen, who faces a difficult task – to protect his people from the increasingly frequent and devastating attacks by dragons. The former Archmage Ged, now living in seclusion with his companion Tenar, happens to meet the sorcerer Alder, who can speak with the souls of the dead, among whom is Alder's wife, Lily. The young man is frightened of his gift, but Ged explains: “The bond between you and your wife is stronger than the boundary between life and death.” And it is Alder who will help the inexperienced king fight the dragons. However, Tenar and her daughter Tehanu also prove to be invaluable helpers.