In this sequel to The Amulet, Jessica and Joshua struggle to create the Crystal Ark, a talisman that has been prophesied would be necessary for their very survival. The dethroned queen Maura, and her ruthless champion, Steevon, have discovered a dark power that threatens the lives and freedom of the new king and queen. When death and terror are delivered to the surrounding cities, seemingly with the new Guardian's blessing, Jessica is forced to defend her honor. The strange nightmare's that plague the Guardian's sleep, her inability to create the Ark and the loss of all her allies combine against the young monarch in an effort to destroy her. It is then, when Jessica is the most vulnerable that a mysterious stranger appears claiming that she was destined to be his wife, and he, her Protector. It would seem the fates are against the new Guardian as she is forced to endure the last and most terrible betrayal that leaves her bereft even of the Amulet's power. It is then Jessica is forced to discover what she is truly made of.