Maia-Zak of the Hungry Earth Clan has psionic abilities. Millenia ago, her clan welcomed refugees who believed in il-Yannah and thr turning of the age age: Kalashtar. Since then the Kalashtar members have forgotten the details of their struggle, but know that the celebrated Jhorgun'taal cannot carry the full blessings of the spirit of light. The arrival of Riedran ambassadors has alarmed the clan, whose stories warn of a great empire across the sea ruled by hollow men.