Bell Teinburen belongs to the Saint Beneze Hospital Knights, a group that provides medical care and protection to pilgrims traveling on the road. As a sword-wielding monk, he intervenes in an attempted assault of Ashe Talton, a young girl, in the town of Brokken Brook. However, he sustains injuries during the altercation. Realizing his condition, Ashe takes him to her home that also functions as a clinic.
While Bell receives treatment for his wound, he observes Ashe's constant acts of kindness, despite her emotionless demeanor. As he spends more time with her, he expresses his desire to remain in town and attend the May festival with Ashe. Unbeknownst to Bell, Brokken Brook's idea of a festival involves a Church-sponsored witch hunt that lasts for days. To his shock, Ashe is the next girl to face trial.
