Summary: Born the son of a deserter, Sam is one of the Fettered - the lowest social caste in the Empire of Korveil. His is forbidden from marrying his beloved until he proves himself against the monsters who poison their crops with magical curseweed. But when Sam captures one of these creatures, a jack named Wick, he forms a friendship more dear than any he's had before. Soon, Sam sees how monstrous his own people can be - and is torn between his affection for Wick and loyalty to his people.