Alone in the dark. Nightmarish creatures behind every corner. The line between reality and dreams begins to blur …

The City-Tree Arbalith seems perfect in many ways. They have mastered the use of Thamber gems, which grow their crops, shape their homes, and heal their sickness. Below this perfect city lurks creatures strange and menacing-Dryads, and Mycads. Thurso Diamante has risked everything to mount an expedition to the tunnels below. If he can just study the strange creatures below his city he is sure he can make a great discovery, a handsome fortune. But nothing goes to plan, and he is left to fend for himself. He's only a man of science-he was never meant to be thrust into this much peril, unarmed and inexperienced. His wish is granted at an enormous cost. He discovers something that ought to be impossible-something he can hardly believe himself. Could it be that there is more to these monstrous creatures than anyone had imagined? Even if he makes it back alive … will anyone believe him?