This second volume of the Temeraire series when down just as easily as the first. England is still battling the French, and dragons are desperately needed for the war- but an envoy from China, no less a person than the Emperor's own brother, has arrived in England demanding the return of their Celestial dragon. To avoid forced separation, Laurence and Temeraire must agree to the 8 month voyage to China, to negotiate with the Imperial family in person. The normal dangers of a sea voyage are heightened by attacks from unexpected quarters- two murder attempts, a wild sea serpent, rumors of ghosts and illness beset the crew. The last danger only rears its head once they have reached their destination: Laurence's fear that Temeraire will fall in love with his homeland and never want to return to Britain and the war.