Keepers of the Lost Cities – Everblaze

In the beginning of book 3, Sophie is still adjusting to her abilities after the Black Swan fixed them in Exile (book 2), but she remains under stress. The Vackers struggle because Alden is still trapped in his broken mind. Later, Sophie visits Prentice (the banished elf) and becomes more suspicious of what the Council is hiding. Sophie’s good friend Keefe helps her cope, and their friendship grows stronger as he supports her through stress, guilt, and questions about trust. Although suspicious, Sophie continues to report to the Councillors, but she realizes they are not telling her the full truth, adding to her distrust. Fintan, the Pyrokinetic, is unmasked as a Neverseen leader. A massive fire is set by Fintan and the Neverseen, spreading destruction, and in the fire Councillor Kenric dies while trying to contain the Everblaze, devastating Sophie and all elves. Sophie later learns Alden is beginning to heal, giving the Vackers hope. She sees how flawed and unprepared the leadership is, and decides she can’t just rely on the Council—she must act with her friends to stop the Neverseen.