Faced with the end of their world as they know it, Scarlett senses that their lone chance of survival is uniting the tribes and gaining back the islands. Melange creatures, bred by the Stygians, surround Valla University and terrify the towns along with new evils created with leshy magic. Tidings remains divided, and the university is under siege. Indigo remains in the clutches of the Stygians after failed rescue attempts, and Thrimilci is the sole island recovered after a grisly battle. Only fulfilling the prophecy will save them, but in doing so Slate will die - a choice Scarlett will have to make.