The village of Willowshade is deserted, save for one small cottage. Here lives Claudius, an ageing doctor and renowned alchemist. He is solitary man, except for a small, ancient Drake (male dragon) named Maurice, and the well-kept grave of his late wife, Kristanna. Unexpectedly, Claudius receives a surprise visit from a very old friend, the opulent artisan Arcadius. Though pleased to see his friend, his presence soon leads Claudius to begin questioning the morality of his solitary existence in such a troubled time. However, Arcadius' connection to the tyrannical Raven King proves problematic when it is revealed that his seemingly foolish actions could have far reaching consequences, for himself and Claudius alike. Claudius must choose between honouring his old friend or continuing his endeavour to preserve both his village and his memories.