Lockton Castle, a four day ride from Bayersby Manor, is in the grip of an epidemic. Concerned that the disease will spread if left unattended, Sir Edred sends young Apothecary Oric to administer to the sick.

Upon his arrival at the castle, Oric fears that something far more sinister than an epidemic is afoot. Determined to explore the castle, he waits until everyone retires to bed. The secret he unearths sends him racing back to Bayersby Manor before the inmates of Lockton Castle arise.

Mother Olive, soothsayer and troublemaker, chooses market day in the village of...

Oric returns from an early-morning foraging expedition to find his home, Dunburton Manor, sacked by a band of marauders. Alchemist Deveril, Oric's mentor and friend, lies fatally wounded. The old man thrusts a key into Oric's hand, saying that it will unlock the secret to great wealth. Deveril also warns of terrible danger should the key fall into wrong hands.

Esica Figg, moneylender and arch villain is determined to steal the key - even if he has to kill Oric to get it.

Oric escapes the burning manor and wanders the countryside until he stumbles upon Bayersby Manor, the...