In which the quiet village of Tunstall is roused by a summons to arms as dark tidings of impending conflict spread, and the young Richard Shelton prepares to lead a wary band through brewing dangers marked by ominous black arrows and whispered threats. Amidst old loyalties and new suspicions, a deadly shot in a humble garden stirs fears and forces swift decisions, setting these rustic folk upon a path shadowed by mistrust and uncertain war.