Octodurus is a market town that is occupied by the Romans. There is harmony between most of the local villagers and the Romans, but some resent the occupation and are determined to cause trouble.
Gaius is a young herdsman living in a local village who visits on market day to help his father with the family's stall. Whilst in town, he meets an intelligent and attractive centurion's daughter, Cordelia. He falls in love with her and so begins a passionate relationship, but how will this be viewed by the local villagers...
Whilst grazing his goats up in the mountains, Gaius is caught up in an earthquake, which reveals hidden treasures within the mountain. Gaius' family are excited by his find but are somewhat trepidatious as to whether the Roman legion stationed in the garrison will allow them to profit from the find. Will Cordelia's father help them to benefit from it?