Born a peasant, Brynach has achieved the highest rank he can--Cadfael, war chieftain to King Vorath. Grateful for the opportunity, Brynach serves his king without question until his king sends him to defend a border without supplies or reinforcements. Against the odds, Brynach manages to lead his men to victory. His reward? All the lands of the fallen. But Brynach grew up learning what every peasant knows--gifts from the high born often carry a price. For Brynach, that price is governing a wilful people, personified by Keira of the Aitire. She's a red-haired demon who wields a rug beater in the same ruthless manner Brynach wields a sword. And to just as great effect. The only thing they both want is to heal the land. Will Aitire cost more than Brynach can give, or can two strong-willed people learn to compromise...and trust each other?