Pidge is a mercenary: uncouth, poor, far from the type of beautiful woman the royal court would deem appropriate company for Princess Trina, her childhood friend and lover. Life is easier, even kinder in many ways, on the road and in run-down towers where nobody cares about anything but how well she wields her sword and if she can pay for her drinks.But when she learns that Trina has been trapped in an unwanted engagement, Pidge is determined to save her. According to the rules of the Church of Tamren, whoever returns the holy relics long ago stolen by the Kimbrar has the right to take the hand of any member of the royal house. Provided she can first slay the vicious beast that most say doesn't even exist.