Synopsis: ● "Dara's father, Detsaw, and the other six elders are responsible for the protection of their people through laws enforced by soldiers, watchers, and attendants. But there are other, more serious threats to the circle than rule breaking. The deadly luza plague must be controlled by means of euthanasia—for the greater good. Deserters who escape with their plague-infected children pose a danger to all those who remain within the circle. Add to that the constant threat of the monstrous Namuh, with their history of bloodshed, and it's no wonder the elders are so strict. But after enduring a terrifying reptile attack while on a dig, Dara comes to a sickening realization about the life she has been living, and her world is turned upside down." ― paraphrased from this book's product page on Amazon.com as of 2022-08-04.