Since its formation 40 million years ago, the Tsaeb civilization has survived giant meteorites and advancing ice sheets. But the greatest danger is always from new species. Now, a militant new species is trying to expand its territory into Tsaeb lands. When the species sends an armed patrol into the small Wycliff District, the District Council sends a young Tsaeb warrior named Corr Syl to investigate and recommend a response. Corr soon learns that spies have infiltrated his district, and already many lives are at risk. He catches a glimpse of something truly evil, and with no time to spare, must choose between a safe response that might fail, and a sure response that might start a war.