A tentative peace with the Opplian kingdom along with mountain passes choked with snow both suggest a quiet peaceful season for Trysten and the hordesmen of Aerona weyr. But don't get too comfortable.

The royal family of Cadwaller pays a visit to oversee the completion of a deal with the Seelian kingdom to restore normal relations. But what the Seelians were promised is something Trysten and Elevera can't deliver. Tensions rise. The fate of the kingdom shifts. Clandestine deals threaten to plunge Cadwaller into chaos and bring famine to the dragons of Aerona. All as Exeris prepares for one last gambit.

Being the dragoneer of Aerona weyr may not be enough. Trysten will need to be more. She and her dragon must rise above to set the stage for her greatest trial and final encounter with Exeris.