The fate of the galaxy is placed in the hands of Lunzie, who discovers the true nature of three friends: Fordeliton, who is dying of a mysterious poison; Dupaynil, who is exiled; and Aygar, who tries to prove himself.

About Elizabeth Moon:

"Excellent plotting and characters support the utterly realistic action sequences: swift, jolting, confusing, and merciless. It's a corker!"--Kirkus Reviews

"Moon has created a richly imagined universe of different cultures, replete with intriguing characters and the sense of unlimited possibility that characterizes the most appealing science fiction."--School Library Journal

"Rip-roaring action and intriguing science and tactics . . . [a] grand space opera tour de force."--Publishers Weekly

". . . the first work of high heroic fantasy I've seen that has taken the work of Tolkien, assimilated it totally and deeply and absolutely, and produced something altogether new and yet incontestably based on the master . . . [Moon's] military knowledge is impressive, her picture of life in a mercenary company most convincing. I'm deeply impressed."--Judith Tarr