King Baeden is the ruler of Ardanach, a widower with three daughters. He is known as a good king, if stern and aloof. He has brought stability and prosperity to the kingdom. About thirty years ago, when a horde of monsters obliterated the Northern Kingdom, he led the campaign that stopped the invaders and protected Ardanach's northern border. Now, in his fifties, he is weak and dying. Royal physicians tell him he will not survive the winter. He fears for the future of his kingdom.