Two years have passed since book 2. Hyroc is now 18 and has mastered the use of the Flame Claw. But despite his newfound powers, he is more vulnerable than ever. With the completion of his training, he is no longer protected by a Guardian, and Ursa has long since departed. Nevertheless, his unknown adversary is still out there, and Hyroc remains ignorant of the plot against him. The last two years have only heightened the suspicion and distrust that the villagers of Elswood hold toward him, and some are outright hostile. These behaviors solely focused on him have enveloped Donovan, Elsa, and Curtis. The charity and compassion they had initially received proceeding the spider attack have all but vanished. They are outcasts, living on the razor's edge. Hyroc does what he can to help, but it's not enough. Whether or not they can remain in Elswood weighs heavily on their minds. But even as they struggle to eke out a living in the forest, darkness gathers around them. Keller, The Ministry zealot that hunts Hyroc, has not forgotten about him and has not been idle. Quietly he has moved his pieces into position. It will take every ounce of strength for Hyroc and his friends to survive the coming storm, and everyone may not make it out of this alive.
