Tano may be in Gara now, but he feels anything but secure.

Born to the in Tasiyo, bitter enemies of the in Gara, Tano is trying hard to behave perfectly and win acceptance among his new people. But he fears that any misstep might mean the lord of the in Gara casts him out. Tano could lose more than his place with his new tribe: he could lose Ryo’s good opinion and encouragement, his tentative new friendships, his younger brother — everything that matters to him.

He would rather die.

Then Vayu in Kera, also once in Tasiyo, brings Tano an urgent problem, asking for his help. Tano owes Vayu too great a debt to refuse … whatever the cost.