Mick Conway knows that stopping the time lightning didn't stop the relentless campaign to seize control of the time alleys of Victorian London. It's a subtle, far-reaching campaign led by an adversary with enormous cunning, charm, and power?an adversary who can distort alleys, corrupt allies, and fool even the savviest watchers.

As their adversary draws ever closer to being able to turn time travel into a devastating tool for oppression, Mick and his friends must learn to understand the inner workings of the alleys?and to overcome their own fears and doubts?to have any chance of protecting innocent people and keeping the time alleys free. And, despite not knowing whether they can even trust one another, they must find a way not only to work together but also, if they dare, to join forces with new friends and old enemies who may hold the key to their success?and their survival.