Synopsis:

Rich merchant's daughter Errelyn and her bondservant Kate are forced to flee their home city of Roclain after an attack from formerly mysterious trading partner (dealt with only through middlemen) arrive in force to seize not only Roclain, but the entire small, northern country of Reef. After the near-leveling of the city, Errelyn and Kate and unforeseen companions attempt to find safety with Errelyn's relatives, but soon discover there is something they left behind that will provide their attackers with the key to victory.