In his childhood, Wiglaff demonstrated that his qualities were different from those valued by his father. His instinctual sensitivity and his insight into the natural world set him apart. As he gradually develops his shamanistic skills, his sister is training to be a leader of female warriors.Protected by his mother Onna, Wiglaff learns of his family's connections across Caledonia as she arranges Wiglaff's tutelage with Ugard the Shaman, her former suitor.As his sister recruits those that will form her secret army, Wiglaff comes to understand the comprehensive scope of the Roman effort to contain and conquer Caledonia. A Roman slave, named Festus, helps Wiglaff clarify the Roman threat and ultimately sacrifices his life for the Caledonian cause.Will Wiglaff be able to emerge as the shaman that Caledonia so desperately needs?