When fourteen-year-old Meriani learns about an invading army heading towards their small village, she fears what will happen. Everyone is scared! Knowing that the men have gone to the temple to try and find a solution, she can't resist the temptation to go eavesdrop. Although she is not allowed in the sanctuary, she is able to hide in the balcony above, from where she can hear what is happening. To her shock, Arnekus, the priest, chooses only a handful of men to go face the large invading forces; and, among them is her father! Her fears subside only a little when she not only hears Arnekus promise them victory; but also when her father pledges a sacrifice upon returning triumphant from the battle. Her heart is comforted that he will return because, if nothing else, she knows he must come back to fulfill his promise. But Meriani's elation of his homecoming will dwindle quickly once she learns that what he has pledged to sacrifice is her!