He would do anything to save his people. But his people don't want to be saved. Wanyi, master of beastlore and chief of his clan, wants nothing more than to restore the fortunes of his people and to clear his father's name. But when a foreign emperor comes with a proposal to unite their two nations, promising prosperity for all, Wanyi isn't willing to pay the cost-a yearly purging of the weak and infirm. Now, with a vote set for the end of the summer, he must convince the other chiefs of the council to stand their ground against this silver-tongued tyrant with a powerful military wielding explosive Banti magic. To do so, he'll have to enlist the help of Meisun and her group of traders from a faraway land, whose rare goods and enchantments belie their true capabilities. With the power of bonded beasts-along with stealth, cunning, and political savvy-Wanyi and his allies must find a way to outmaneuver the emperor and his sympathizers on the council of chiefs before their land is taken forever. Failure means losing the kingdom. Success without care risks open war. And Wanyi can't fly fast enough.