In a decimated world, setting foot outside of Tallas is certain death or so they say. Mutations caused by those in the wilderness have plagued citizens or so they say. For Doogan and Keelya their belief in a Free Tallas has lost its glimmer. When their son, Fabal is given a dangerous assignment, they risk everything to protect him. Fleeing Tallas, they head for the wilderness. But they're ambushed by cruel Mediators, Doogan is recaptured, and while Keelya and Fabal escape, she is severely injured. Can the two of them survive in the wilderness? Will Doogan get away from the clutches of the Mediators? And are the legends about terrible monsters beyond Tallas true?