Heita—the last of the Chars—has no choice but to leave her former life and return to her native village in order to stand guard for those she loves. Meanwhile, the chimera Merec hunts for red stones—artifacts that grant access to a power capable of unleashing the Primordial Darkness and devouring everything living.
The Guardians set out on a perilous journey through the Forest of the Pre-Twilight Shadows and to the Dragon Islands, where at every step they are stalked by monsters and bloodthirsty ancient spirits. Along the way, they will face betrayals and sudden allies, endure desperate battles, and confront a feeling that could become salvation—or turn into death.
As the world trembles at the awakening of an ancient horror, the fates of people and other beings converge in a deadly confrontation. But is it possible to defeat someone who seeks not power, but the complete destruction of the world?