Desperate to keep her magic hidden, Katerina goes to great lengths to avoid dragons and mages. When she gets cornered by evil mages, her only chance at escape involves freeing a trapped dragon who might kill her simply because she is human like the mages who bound him. *       *       * Most dragons detested humans. Too many tried to slay them, control them with magic, or steal their treasures. Every dragon may be born a mage, but their unique magical powers prevented them from wiping out the human race without dooming their own in the process. Many humans were terrified of the massive magic-wielding dragons who were known to kill any who offended or annoyed them. Some humans bravely traded with the dragons, hoping for rare treasures or a spell. A few desired the dragon's bond since dragon riders were highly revered or feared wherever they went. Even kings were careful if a dragon rider showed up at their castles, for insulting a dragon rider could imply insult to the dragon, and the dragons didn't take kindly to being insulted. Certain people, such as Katerina, knew the truth that so many overlooked. The bond was a gilded cage. Dragons never let go. When deadly creatures from the sea make their way into the rivers and set their sights on land, Katerina and the dragon she helped might have to work together to save both humankind and dragonkin.