The first new Elfquest story in years from the original creators returns readers to the ongoing saga of the Wolfriders, a tribe of feral elves who must constantly fight to survive against a harsh environment and the ever-present threats posed by fearful primitive humans. The simultaneous quests undertaken by elven tribal elder Treestump and the tribe's adopted human daughter Shuna fuel the narrative; one's striving for the much-needed secret of ancient troll metallurgy, and the other's seeking to forge a bridge between her human relatives and her elven family. Their journeys are fraught with frustration, doubt, sacrifice and sheer peril, all leading to major turning points for the future of Shuna, Treestump and the Wolfriders as a whole. Bursting with the strong characterizations for which the Pinis are acclaimed, this volume showcases lush color art and immerses readers into the clash between the natural and magical worlds. While the story isn't without moments of conflict and action, the tone is one of quiet reflection, as the tale is recounted by the now aged Shuna. This is another solid addition to the Elfquest legacy. (July) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.