Darin, a shape-shifter seeking redemption for past sins, works for the Sisters of Mercy. Offering his sword arm to help protect those they tell him to, he is sent to a far land to protect an heiress. Given how aristocracy generally view his kind-beastly, unkempt savages best kept as slaves than citizens-he balks at protecting one. As he attempts to complete his mission, he is met with various obstacles, not the least of which is the strong-headed woman he vows to protect. Leonyn, heiress to the Free Tribes of Qamsaman, is threatened by a rebel faction of zealots bent on destroying what her father has built. Drawn to the mysterious stranger who enters her life, she hopes to learn more about him and herself. Should she trust this strange, gruff man? Faced with no other choice, she is compelled to put her life in Darin's hands.