Garion, Polgara, her sorcerer father Belgarath, and their companions embark on a journey to stop those who stole the Orb and plan to deliver it to the evil God Torak. If he gets possession of the Orb, Torak will awaken and become all-powerful--causing destruction and misery throughout the world.

While on this mission, Garion discovers his own special powers, meets the princess Ce'Nedra, is captured by hirelings of the terrifying (yet alluring) Snake Woman, and grows towards manhood as he battles enemies and deals with complex, conflicting emotions.

The second book in the bestselling action-packed fantasy series that Publishers Weekly found "absorbing", the rich world of The Belgariad comes alive.