Six years ago the Temple of Chaldon burned her parents as witches. Now three forbidden guests bribe her abusive bond-holder innkeeper to stay during the Midwinter Festival in Drinn. She attracts the unwanted attention of head priest Gadrath, and so do kindly healer Mist, and mated mercenaries Jaren and Arelnath. Orphan urchin friend Shandy can guide them to secret tunnels, but how can they escape the evil Shadow Chaldon, unless Alethia conquers her fears and accepts her powers?