Hunters wait all year for the Festival of Knives, when they put their skills to the test and claim new ranks with every monster they kill. Trapped helping the family business instead of pursuing his own career, Trellin has never been allowed to participate.  But when he risks expulsion to sneak out and claim a kill beyond his rank, his hunt is spotted by a senior guildmember.   Rather than turn him in, she offers him a chance for freedom: Join her, and sail to the distant isle of Deldynne ...