"Zale. Gauthier. Varden. For me, these three dynasties have always sounded like something out of an ancient myth or fairy tale from another world. The concept of humans and dragons helping and living in harmony with one another, without fear, is a distant dream only read of, told of secretly, and quietly yearned for. For, you see, I am the new Quelda of the Tynan Dynasty." These words echo the mystery, horror, and romance found within Schulze's young adult fantasy adventure novel. Along with her new husband, Chalom, Crislin must choose to embrace cruel tradition, run from it, or stand against it. The young couple's only hope is to rally the help of the three peaceful dragon dynasties of Sulaimon-but tradition is not on their side, even outside Tynan. Gaining the dragon emperors' aid is not a likely hope. Then again, any hope at all is valued in Tynan. If they are to bring Tynan's tradition to a permanent end, Crisilin and Chalom must brave the three dynasties and the challenges awaiting there. They must convince the dragon emperors to allow them access to the shrines that house the sacred Aria-protective strands of music that can disperse the evil from Tynan and unite the four dynasties of Sulaimon as a whole once again. Their only aid stems from a sprite whose moods are as changeable as her magic, a young minstrel, and a mysterious fox. Despite the odds, defeating the evil of Tynan is possible-but only if they can escape the Wall first.