(836 A.D.), Lothar is the first son of a chieftain who wears golden manacles that proclaim his right as heir to his father's position. Prior to leaving his homeland, he is told by two shaman sisters that he is fated to meet his heart's desire in a new land.

On the return journey from one of his father's trading routes in late autumn, he is attacked by one of his own men and his ship is wrecked during a storm. The man is loyal to Lothar's brother, Ulin, who plans to take the right to rule from Lothar and revert to raiding other lands when their father dies.

He is rescued by the beautiful Dara, the disgraced illegitimate daughter of the king.

Dara is a priestess who was ordained when Goddess Danu placed mystical bracelets on her wrists. She visits the Stone Circle to ask for guidance from the Goddess, and for seasonal celebrations. She wants to be accepted by her father and community, and has an overwhelming need to help others, but she lives in the haunted forest and the villagers believe she practices evil arts.

Dara also doesn't trust men after a humiliating experience with a man who fooled her into thinking he cared. After recovering, Lothar has to choose between returning to his homeland, or staying with the Priestess Dara while protecting her village from an invasion by his own people.

And Dara must convince the people of her village that she is a healer rather than an evil witch who would inflict harm.

Can they overcome their obstacles to unite their two worlds?