In the third book of the series, Chaiko visits the aggressive Tolmecs to fulfill the agreement that ended the war between them. Acting as their Spirit Guide, he tries to teach them more peaceful ways. There Chandar meets Tara, the warrior girl, and Chaiko negotiates for her and her sister. Though he is somewhat successful in taming the Tolmecs, there is much more to do. Barely home, Chaiko takes Dawn on a long journey back to her people, the Ekulan, to show that she has survived the Great Fire. What could be simpler than to meet the family? But nothing is simple when cultures collide and Chaiko has to negotiate acceptance for them. A deadly sickness sweeps through the Ekulan and Chaiko fights desperately to find a treatment when his party is affected by it. The return home is threatened by an early winter storm.