In this exciting new fantasy novel by a Grand Master of Science Fiction, Sarita is in the last year of apprencticeship to the Embroider Dame Arglas. When the Countess Wanda's infant is left in her care, Sarita flees with the child to the forest where she befriends one of the Earl's huntsmen. Together the three hide in the mountains until they can defend the Earl's kingdom and bring peace to the land.