"Deep in the desert there sits a beautiful oasis, ruled by a monarch unlike any other in Erdas. His name is Cabaro, the Great Lion, and he reigns over a kingdom of animals, jealously guarding his golden talisman. No human has ever set foot on the Great Beast's territory. The journey to his oasis is impossible. As a team, Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan have achieved the impossible before. But now that team is broken--the friends scattered by a devastating betrayal. The young heroes and their spirit animals have already sacrificed much in their quest for the talismans. But with the world crumbling all around them--and a ruthless enemy opposing their every move--their greatest sacrifices are yet to come." -- back cover.

"Read the book. Unlock the game"--Cover. Sequel to: "Against the tide" / Tui T. Sutherland ; followed by: "The evertree" / by Marie Lu.