After the bloody chaos of the Russo-Turkish War, army medic Andrei Trifonovich faces a choice: endure a life tainted by treachery, or risk everything by deserting. His flight to freedom, however, takes him into the hidden depths of the Rhodope Mountains, where hide a ruthless cult of cave-dwelling pagans. For over a thousand years, the Thracians have survived in secret, guarding their ancient traditions and killing any outsider who dares approach. But the modern world is closing in, and they must emerge from the shadows or face destruction. In the visions that echo from her cavern walls, their prophetess sees in Andrei the key to carving out a place for her people. Torn between survival and the role thrust upon him, Andrei is plunged into a web of ancient myths, forbidden desires, and brutal necessity. He must do more than merely survive, more than steal a bride and build a nation. Andrei must become a god.