Creatures lurk in the shadows of Ilia, controlled by a witch trying to return a crown to a king. The regent has maintained his control of the kingdom. Using the tribute to win favour has strengthened his position, but his choices bring nothing but doubt. The boy is closer to the crown than he has ever been. And yet he is still too far away. Will the people ever see him as a man, and the king he is? As the little dragon finds her wings, Dray hides amongst old allies to save his king. The power of the witch increases and darkness and fear grow, but everything she does is for Ed, isn't it? Will it matter what she does to help him if he can, once again, hold his father's crown?