Clare and Dorran, despite all the assumptions, still live, but the relief they have gained from the rescue from Helexis Tower is only temporary. Dorran is still worse after Ezro's experimental treatment and it is not clear if he will survive at all. Clare suspects that his only chance is an experimental institute in Evandal, which allegedly survives a group of scientists who could read Ezr's correction code to destroy the Thanites.

Above all, Clare hopes to save the dying Dorrano. It is three days of travel to the institute, but Clare is not sure if they are in their power to arrive at all.

The road is full of pitfalls and danger, but the greatest lurks on them in their center…

The terrifying new world marked everyone around and Clare must fight to protect their loved ones. But he realizes with horror that some are no longer helping.