In the summer of 1144, England is enjoying a lull, while Wales is preparing for war. The prince of Owain Gwynedd’s brother calls in Danish mercenaries to seize power. And to make matters worse, a murder occurs in Owain’s camp… Unexpected guests arrive at the monastery of Saints Peter and Paul, bringing with them ominous expectations for Brother Cadfael. And not without reason: during a flood, a reliquary chest with the relics of Saint Winifred disappears.