Young Tavi saved Calderon from a terrible danger and received gratitude from the First Lord of Alera and a placement for studies at the capital’s Academy. Meanwhile, an ancient monster awakens in Calderon. Tavi’s aunt, Isana, goes to the capital to ask the First Lord for help. The case is complicated by the fact that a convention of the Lords of Alera is to be held in the capital—and the First Lord is not quite healthy. Tavi and his friends from the Academy will have to strain all their strength and wits to help the First Lord and prevent a possible civil war.