This volume follows life in the old capital of Atheia as the inhabitants of the valley take shelter from the Ghost Circles and the Rat Creature armies, and as the growing unrest threatens to reveal Thorn's identity to her enemies.

The Teacher tells them that the inner council who once watched over the city has been replaced with a group calling themselves the Vedu (the "Order of the Dreaming Eye"), who oppose the Dragons and anyone who associates with them.

The human warriors of Pawa have joined forces with the Rat Creatures, forming an army larger and stronger than ever, and confident in the knowledge that the Dragons no longer defend the Old Kingdom.

Ted the bug brings Thorn word that Lucius and the others are still alive, and will reach Atheia in two days' time, but Briar and her army will arrive sooner.

Gran'ma Ben tells Ted to carry a message back to Lucius and his army, planning to trap Briar, the Pawans, and the Rat Creatures in a pincer movement.

At the city wall, Thorn reveals her presence to one of the Royal Guard when he assaults Taneal for setting up a Dragon shrine.

He soon returns with Tarsil and a squadron to arrest her; and Briar and her vast army of Rat Creatures and Pawans have arrived at the city's gates.