The tale of a daring adventuress whose heart and spirit seek expertise in music, but whose experiences lead to knowledge of life itself. Born out of wedlock, 14-year-old Rune is condemned to remain the butt of local gossip. She has dreams of joining the Bardic Guild, whose members enjoy high status, wealth, and security. First, though, she must escape from the village and her lowly status, and risk all to become a famous bard