Lia lives in the mystical ancient land of Muirwood. Her life is defined by serving others, as she is a "Wretched" - cast out, unwanted, and deemed unworthy of any respect. She is also forbidden from fulfilling her long-held dream of learning to read and write. Instead, she is condemned to spend her days as a kitchen maid, under the watchful eye of the Master, the ever-vigilant overseer at the monastery. However, her opportunity arises when an injured squire named Colin is found at the kitchen door. Soon, the ruthless Sheriff Almaguer launches a manhunt for him. Lia hides Colin from him - and in doing so, she gives her fate a completely new twist. Amidst a land torn apart by a brutal war between a ruthless king and an army of rebels, Lia suddenly finds herself on a mysterious journey.