There is something hidden in Anteria. Despite years of war, the Roman forces have been unable to overwhelm native resistance, and a fire-wreathed tiger stalks the dreams of the invaders. The new assault from Roma brings with it Sylvestus Atrox Nigrum, a man respected by his superiors, revered by his soldiers, and well-versed in the mastery of mortal things. Sylv has as many secrets as the island, and his plans are ready to come to fruition - all he needs is a board on which to play his turn. As the tide of the invasion begins to turn in Roma's favour, there are whispers of a power that could destroy the invaders and restore the natural order of the island. Something is hidden, something with the ultimate power over all life. The natives whisper that Nahvo'que must be freed, and it has always been in Sylv's nature to conquer. Anteria will bring to light all the secrets Sylv has spent a lifetime mastering. There are forces larger than the petty games of men on Anteria. What if he could master Death?

In a world where humanity bear wings and racial tension divides a city, things are...Complicated. Daneel just wants her family safe but was never meant to be the one protecting them; Jedekiah is busy trying to burn out the voices in his head while his home is falling apart; and North isn't even sure what's happening, but he's pretty certain it won't end in diplomacy. But after an unfortunate "accident" throws these three unlikely - and unwilling - allies out of their comfort zones and into each others' worlds, they are going to have to learn very quickly the meaning of teamwork and cooperation, to ensure their survival through the city's notorious Disciplines, a (usually) optional gladatorial tournament. Victory will involve breaking boundaries, breaking bones, and occasionally breaking North's glasses - but the stakes might be higher than any of them realise. It's more than just their wings that they're fighting for.