Ever since Roup and Halvery helped take Charder to the Ghost Wood, Roup has noticed a curious tension between them. After working closely with Halvery all spring in order to improve the common way trails, Roup finally talks to Arcove about the situation and gets permission to experiment a little. At the same time, Halvery is dealing with an officer who seems to be a spy from the Southern Mountains. He presents the problem to Roup, who immediately begins a high-stakes game of espionage with a dangerous opponent. As move follows countermove, Halvery becomes increasingly enmeshed in both Roup’s schemes and Roup’s personal life. Their project brings them into contact with friends both new and old, including Arcove, Keesha, Lyndi, Storm, Storm’s yearling foal, and Halvery’s mates. As Roup and Halvery’s friendship deepens, they both learn surprising things about each other and their shared history. However, not all differences can be overcome by affection and mutual grooming. Halvery and Roup have brought out the worst in each other in the past, and their fundamental differences remain unchanged. When their opposing character flaws combust at the worst possible moment, they risk losing not just their friendship, but their lives. Bonus: This book includes the short story “Hungry,” which was previously sold separately. “Hungry” is a prequel story. Arcove and Roup are adolescent cubs, living as rogues on the edge of Leeshwood. Roup grew up among the ferryshaft and is still adjusting to life with his own kind. One night, they have a particularly violent encounter with other cubs, and Roup learns more than he had expected about social life among the creasia.