"When all seems lost,

I will guide the way."

Hugh Geber has found himself at a dead end. Robert J Smithson is hot on his heels, and the Elf King is on the move once more. The book he and Barrington are desperate to find is missing, with a mysterious note in its place. Left with no other choice, they have to head home to Portis-Montis empty handed knowing they are not the only ones seeking the book.

Hugh wants to bury his problems, but when he opens a letter from his presumed-deceased father, his decision to ignore his troubles comes back to bite him. A meeting with Balinas Collins in the university library adds to his woes, causing Hugh and Barrington to follow the path being set out in front of them.

Now they must continue searching for the missing book but also carry out another task vital to the safety of both Old and New worlds, all whilst trying to evade the long arm of the law. Will they find the book first? Or will Smithson beat them to it? Will the Elf King regain his seat and the power he so desperately yearns for? Only time will tell, but time is running out. Fast!