This time no amount of magic can save David and Charlotte. In this action-packed sequel, war has been declared, and in the final battle someone must make the ultimate sacrifice. Together, David and Charlotte have traveled to another realm, battled the Dragon King, recovered the all-important magic key to the mage tunnels, and found the heir to the throne of Hirth, as promised. Now it's time to go home. There's just one problem: the powerful crystals needed to activate the tunnels have been stolen and David's parents have mysteriously disappeared along with them. Meanwhile, Eric Hamden, squire extraordinaire, has survived the poisonous nick of a shadowmorth's blade, rescued the king of Hirth from the bowels of the dragon's lair, and confronted a heartbreaking betrayal that nearly got him killed. Still reeling from the news, Eric sets his sights on a daring rescue only to wind up in a prison of his own with David and Charlotte at his side. But rescues come in strange ways, and before they know it, the three end up in David's hometown of Havendale and Eric gets a quick schooling in Modern Life 101. With secrets, lies and betrayals meeting them at every turn, David, Charlotte, and Eric soon discover that Havendale isn't the sanctuary they'd hoped for. Even their best-laid plans can't prepare them for the danger that stalks them. Let the battle begin.