Lord Derryk is inlove with the foundling he and King Eirik discovered seventeen years ago. Then,he was but a child. Now, he is ready to court and marry her. Renata, however,believes she doesn't belong and isunworthy of Derryk's love. She tries to be a perfect wife, ultimatelyexhausting herself.

When temptationcomes in the form of a professed friend, Iollan, she falls for his seductivelies, and betrays Derryk,breaking his heart.

Repeatedly, Derrykforgives and tries to draw her back. But Renata doesn't believe Derryk can trulyforgive or loveher again. Renata continues be unfaithful, until Derryk signs a divorce.

Away from Derryk'sprotection, Renata sees the truth about Iollan. At her lowest point, desperate,she returns toEorden for help. She is offered a hut on the edge of his lands with only basicfood tosustain her.

But Derryk hasvanished and an army bears down on the kingdom. Iollan discovers Renata'shideoutand charges herwith many crimes, including murder. Derryk's servants are distraught, notknowingwhat to do.

The king arrivesin time for the trial, where Renata is sentenced to death. At the last minute,Derryk steps out of thecrowd and offers to take her punishment. What follows is a public hanging and aturn of events noone expects. Derryk's love ultimately vanquishes all enemies and wins Renata'sheart forever inbeautiful reconciliation.