An orphan named Camilla has the birthmark of the Dragon Clan - an intricate design of a dragon flowing from her hip to the ugly head peering over her shoulder. She knows enough to conceal it. When dragons fly nearby, the design on her back tingles. She's told that one day she will call down dragons - whatever that means, but first, she must avoid the assassins sent by the King. He has already murdered her family, and Camilla must escape and find sanctuary.