Goslar the elf is writing children's books in this fifth book in the series. Brendan, Morag's husband, wants to go back to patrolling the coast. Morag is expecting a baby, and she picks out a new kitten called William to keep her company. Brendan, walking home, finds a ring of gold from Roman times. But he goes to Maeve's cottage by the sea and leaves upon the Cormorant. Faeryn, the midwife, helps with Patricius birth, but Maeve's finger begins to burn and she throws her wedding ring and later cannot find it. Cigfa and Branwen plan a beautiful baptism, but a knocked-over candle starts a fire that Ranaulf saves the people from. At the same time, Maeve is expecting and she is running her restaurant, Maeve's Meatless Meals. Timothy, her customer, helps with her daughter Emma's birth. Emma is a mermaid like her mother used to be. Patricius and Emma are friends and swim together. But one day, a ship comes by and kidnaps Patricius. Maeve explains to Branwen and Cifga how she was able to get legs when she drank from the Enchanted Cup. Her dream is to get legs for her little girl. But Emma swims after the ship, trying to save Patricius, and goes under. Patricius works in Eire to teach the people about Christianity using the magic bestowed upon him by his godmothers at his baptism. Patricius must face the Druids, who defend the old ways. He blames himself for Emma's death. Cigfa and Branwen start new businesses as their empire grows! Meanwhile, Faeryn is angry and vindictive--what does she have planned?