Ursel is the daughter of the Lords of Orth, who control the vital salt trade on Lake Traun and protect the merchants from pirates. Shortly after the summer solstice celebration in the year 950, her family is attacked by the power-hungry Count Wilhelm of Chiemgau. Only Ursel and her brother manage to escape. Ursel vows revenge. Disguised as a man, she joins the salt pirates and soon becomes a celebrated member of the band of robbers. Against her will, she falls in love with the merchant and scholar Steffen, whom she actually considers her enemy. When Ursel's disguise is threatened to be revealed, the two find themselves in great danger.