When two starving wild baars arrive in Iluk asking for food, Dias's newly appointed civil servant, Hubert, proposes a deal: food and shelter in return for wool. This arrangement proves even more successful than expected, so Hubert decides it's high time for Iluk to make its first forays into dedicated trade with Mahati. But while Ellie is away bartering, a deadly flame dragon is spotted heading for Iluk! Dias, the onikin, and the residents of Iluk must prepare for battle with what may be their most formidable foe to date!