Arthur Wells always secretly thought magic was real, but no one believes in such things in Steward, Michigan. When Arthur meets a fairy, he begins a magical journey behind the Shimmer where sky pirates rule the air, Alchemists are the greatest mages in the world, and Arthur is destined to be one of them.

But all magic comes with a price. When Arthur opens the door to his destiny, he frees a dangerous sorcerer. Now Arthur must travel to Merlin's Tomb to save his father and face the Chained Dragon.