Emily Emeraldgarden is back in Wizard city after having managed to save the spiral, but at a cost. Just when she thinks that she's seen too much to be surprised, she begins to learn of shadows from her past that make Malistaire seem like a walk in the park. Along with shadows from the Ashthorn brother's pasts, finally understanding their need for secrecy. Can Emily get over everything she has lost and Save the spiral once more? Is the prophecy fulfilled? Or is there a more sinister story at play?