Etaa is the pivotal character in the story. Beloved by both Hywel, the Kotaane smith, and Meron, the Neaane king, she represents the possibility of communication between the two factions. Etaa can see and hear clearly, a rare combination among the plague damaged populace. When Etaa is kidnapped by Meron, Hywel becomes a ferocious warleader in his efforts to make the Neaane return her. Etaa, meanwhile, learns about the Neaane religion and their way of life. She discovers that the "gods" are not what they appear to be and rejects both the Neaane religion and their king. The king, however, believes he has impregnated her and proclaims her son as his heir. Meron also gains an understanding of the Kotaane that strengthens his attachment to Etaa in spite of her refusal to return his love. Ultimately, Tam, one of the "gods," acting on orders from his superiors, removes...