Matthias- a young man from the tribe of the bear, is sent on a crusade to atone for his guilt. Only Samuel of the tribe of the wolf can help him-by forging the spear that will kill the beast. This beast named the Shadow-summoned by sorcery; has butchered the village of Scarborough... Matthias the Penitent must conquer the Shadow and even himself if he is to survive the crusade.