Hidden deep underground for millennia, discovered only by chance, the mysterious machine has awakened, to begin issuing a series of ominous and alarmingly accurate omens. As the wizard Zeddicus attempts to destroy the sinister device, it issues a cataclysmic omen involving Richard and Kahlan, foretelling an impending event beyond anyone's ability to prevent. With catastrophe imminent, the machine then reveals that it is within its power to withdraw the omen - on the fulfillment of an impossible demand. Cover art by Rob Anderson.