The Presences mean something different to each of Jubal's colonists. In some, these towering crystals inspire awe, in others fear. A small band must break through the long silence between humanity and the Presences to strike a new alliance - and bring about the end of a tyrannical dynasty. Sheri S. Tepper's world has the depths of galaxies. Her characters come alive like stars burning in the black of space. The tale she tells will leave you astounded.