Ashiy, a young redtail fox, has been raised in the remote smuggler's den of Whim's Haven. Hidden at the heart of a troll-infested forest, its population is full of ruffian raccoons, brigand bears, and snarl-toothed wolves. Ashiy dreams of seeing the wider world beyond its borders, but his mysterious elven godmother is determined to keep him close by her side. He knows she's keeping secrets-about who she really is, and the past which left him an orphan.
Yet Ashiy discovers more than he bargained for after an illicit and violent encounter with one of animalkind's oldest foes-man. It sets him on a perilous journey into the vast lands of Altharia, home to animals blessed with intelligence by the good Mistress above. Though Ashiy is at last free of Whim's Haven, his adventure may prove more bittersweet than joyous. Shall he ever uncover the truths hidden away from him? And shall fate return him home the same fox he once was?