Rusti is a Mongol warrior, fighting for the bloodthirsty Tamburlaine, Conqueror of the World. He intends to show the enemy neither fear nor mercy... until he comes face-to-face with his first elephant. Kavi is the elephant's rider. Captured by the terrifying Mongol Horde, he fears for his life. But the boy who takes him prisoner does not kill him. And soon it seems they might almost become friends. Then Rusti uncovers a terrible secret, and the unlikeliest of friendships is put to the ultimate test. A breathtaking tale of friendship, destiny and revenge set in the war-ravaged lands of fourteenth-century India. "Geraldine McCaughrean is an awe-inspiring writer with a miraculous talent for bringing to life past times and faraway lands." - The Sunday Telegraph Nominated - CILIP Carnegie MedalShortlisted - UK Literary Association Children's Book Award

RUSTI is a Mongol warrior, fighting for the bloodthirsty Tamburlaine, Conqueror of the World. He intends to show the enemy neither fear nor mercy... until he comes face-to-face with his first elephant.

KAVI is the elephant's rider. Captured by the terrifying Mongol Horde, he fears for his life. But the boy who takes him prisoner does not kill him. And soon it seems they might almost become ... friends.

Then Rusti uncovers a terrible secret, and the unlikeliest of friendships is put to the ultimate test.