A great darkness approaches from the west, triggering a series of events that will forever change the tiny farming village of Lush Acres. Some believe it is a mighty storm, while others believe it to be a strange plague. Soon, however, ashes begin falling from the sky, prompting one of the town elders, Farmer James, to fear the return of an old enemy, the Fire King. Twelve-year-old Sally Mordigan witnesses the predawn arrival of a mysterious rider from the north who is hastily whisked away from public view. Has he come to warn of impending danger? As she attempts to discover his secret, she is thrust into an adventure of monumental importance. Aided by a talking wolf, a giant, and even Death itself, her journey takes her through strange and dangerous lands and may just determine the fate of Lush Acres.