I didn't mind the lack of discourse regarding magic in the first book at all. I was hoping then it would be developed further in this book. Alas, it isn't completely dwelled upon as I would like it to be. Also, it would have been a delight to know more of the magus Artan and his past because among everyone, I find his character to be the most intriguing. Underdevelopment of magic and few plotlines aside, I still immensely enjoyed this sequel. The epilogue simply brought a sigh of contentment, for the characters I came to adore deserve such ending.