On the world of Cerra Sevatia, animals are more than mere beasts. The people of Cerra are humanoid beings with the characteristics of animals. They range from the mountainous, bull-like Akoans to the diminutive, mouse-like Mateesh. But even among the Mateesh, Tina van Schtoffen stands short. Though a highly regarded wizard attached to the guild of magic known as the Council of Stars, Tina is only six inches tall.

When the city of Likonia, precariously founded in the dragon territory of Maldavia, is attacked by monsters called "Dragon Eaters," Governor Harkon Keldo requests aide from the Council of Stars. The wizard's guild, which has a favorable relationship with Maldavia, had originally objected to the establishment of the encroaching settlement. But since these "Dragon Eaters" threatened both Likonia and the dragons, the leader of the guild sends Tina to assess the situation.

Tina's initial impression of the Likonians is an unfavorable one. Able to move through the city undetected, she discovers both their distrust for wizards and little reason for her to trust Governor Keldo. But news of a wounded Maldavian nearby takes her away from the city to where she meets with the dragon. He reveals as much as he can about the "Dragon Eaters" to Tina and gives her a place to begin her investigation.

After returning to the city, Tina enlists the help of Kravek Rivakian, an Akoan from the eastern hill country whom she encountered when she first arrived. Suspicions concerning the origin of the Dragon Eaters are raised by a trail laden with traps, a shipment of magical reagents which arrived in Likonia before Tina, and the information gathered from the Maldavian. When the truth comes to light, she must use her wits if she hopes to defeat the monsters and save the Maldavians, the city, and herself.