From the first moment the Watcher, Bastian, and his ward, Macy, showed up on his doorstep, Tolen Parks knew his attempts at a normal life were gone forever. While his peers were measured for caps and gowns and submitting college applications, he’s been fighting the evil forces of the Dark, learning to tap into powers he once feared, and accepting the role of the Ninth Chosen, a destiny far greater and more terrifying than he could have ever imagined. Tolen has discovered that his father is trapped at the center of the Dark's stronghold, the Shadow Prison, and that it is Tolen that must step forward and rescue him. But while Tolen's gifts are powerful, his lack of control makes him dangerous, leaving tragedy in his wake and losing his allies' trust. His advisors want him to train, but Tolen knows that time is running out for his father, and sometimes it doesn't matter if you're ready when you're needed most.