Jeke is from a simple farm village, on a trip with several other families to see the big city. Along the way, they're ambushed by outlaws, and Jeke and another boy named Willard are the only survivors. A party of elves saves the two wounded humans, taking them back to their village to recover.

Life amongst the elves is tough. The one bright spot for Jeke is an elf named Imbryl, who looks about Jeke's age. He isn't, and coldly informs Jeke of this when Jeke tries to make friends. But there is clear attraction between them, in spite of the tension and the fact that Imbryl would be disowned were anything to happen between them.

Yet a relationship begins to form as they come to terms with their differences and prejudices. Soon it will be time for Jeke and Willard to return to their own people. Will Jeke ever see Imbryl again? Do they dare take any steps down a path from which it would be tough to return?