She's survived hostile realms, multiple creatures wanting her dead, and worst of all, embarrassing herself in front of her crush. When she meets Veri, the sarcastically witty assistant to the local healer, she finally has a real friend. But when they eavesdrop on an evening of storytelling, she discovers yet another secret about her dad. Unsure where Gaedyen is or whether he's alive, she realizes she must continue the mission without him or risk Tukailaan finding the magic he needs to end the human race. When new enemies join the fray with the most dangerous magic she's encountered yet, and then they discover a shocking secret about Gaedyen's family, she's not sure she and Veri can stop Tukailaan in time.