Rixon of the Forge is a taciturn widower with a sad past. When his long-lost brother's pet bird turns up, he is determined to follow the clues of Keaton's disappearance and to discover his fate. While Rixon plans to take the journey alone, the village Matchmaker has other ideas. Through trickery and witchcraft she weds Rixon to Bethany of the Del, and the blacksmith has no choice but to drag his unwanted young wife with him through the terrors of Thaldoran in pursuit of a golden parrot. Little does Rixon realise that Bethany is more than just an ordinary woman, and through her quick wit and practical nature, she saves their lives again and again on their perilous quest.