When the ancient dragon Vaerathis breaks free from his failing seal beneath Emberfall’s eastern cliffs, Aeryn discovers that the true threat is not his awakening—but the corrupted dragon Zyraeth, who serves a widening rift in the sky. As battle erupts, Aeryn learns to channel the gold fire within her and reshapes the shattered prison into a new barrier, preventing Zyraeth from escaping while strengthening Vaerathis. Though the city is spared for now, the rift remains open, and Aeryn realizes the fire did not just choose her—she chose to stand against what is coming.
