After two years of a quiet, loving home with Brielle, Aela and Mary, it is time for Enori to begin her training in the Underground. Though she is devastated to leave the only family she has ever known, her innate sense of self and duty propels her into the arms of Ankou, who already has big plans for the thirteen-year-old. Before she goes, she urges Brielle to be open and honest about her feelings for Aela.

Brielle's sickness is beginning to get worse, and what should have been another thirty years before she had to retreat to Shkee is looking imminent, destroying her dream to spend Aela's mortal lifetime with her, as well as see Enori through into adulthood. What is causing this, and what is this darkness that is beginning to loom over Bowhar?

Recognizing Enori's incredible gifts, Senara brings her on a mission with her through time to track down Bahutha, who has been found. The destruction he has been planning and creating is beyond anything any of them could have imagined, and the drumbeat of war begins to sound.

Who will live? Who will die? Who will be broken as the fight for Bowhar begins?