Two elements collected (earth and fire). Will the pain from Sunken Earth ever subside? Will the smoke rising from Fire Island ever disperse? Will Ret, Ana, and Paige ever complete their sophomore year? No, not yet! A third scar has appeared, pointing them to a place where Mr. Coy refuses to go. Fortunately for him, a fourth scar surfaces, one that takes them to the Amazon Rainforest, the Sahara Desert, and ultimately the City of Gold.
We follow our heroes across sea and sand—along rivers wet and dry—on a journey that spans multiple continents as they seek out the hiding place of the third element (ore). Organized or vigilante, trouble finds them at every turn in lands where deadly curses abound. Somewhere, between golden arches and ancient ruins, an age-old secret is waiting to be uncovered.
But Ret's enemies are multiplying, a grim reality that will try the hearts of his friends. And even while some romances bloom and others fade, Ret and the gang must stay on guard. The Oracle is wasting no time now, clearly hastening the gathering of its elements. Things are in full motion; Ret feels this. So does Lye; he is ready—and waiting.