History isn't always what it seems. With the battle of Egypt behind them, Alec and Cronin are enjoying the thrill of new love. Though fate doesn't wait long before throwing them back into the world of weird. They know Alec's blood is special, though its true purpose still eludes them. And given Alec's inability to be changed into a vampire, Cronin is free to drink from him at will. But the ramifications of drinking such powerful blood starts a ripple effect. With the help of Jorge, a disturbing vampire-child with the gift of foresight, Alec and Cronin face a new kind of war. This time their investigations lead them to the borders of China and Mongolia-but it's not what lies in the pits beneath that worries Alec. It's the creator behind it all. In the underground depths of China, amidst a war with the Terracotta Army, they will find out just what the Key is, and what Alec means to the vampire world.