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