In the port city of Arlanda, Zeal, an orphan with a mysterious benefactor, is an Apprentice in the shadowy organization known as the Trade. Through his training, mentorship, and natural skill, he rapidly becomes adept at procuring possessions and secrets that belong to others. When one of his fellow apprentices is kidnapped by a group preying on Arlanda's children, Zeal's Mentors discover to their surprise that the kidnappers are using the conjuring arts to carry out their nefarious plot. Although the Apprentices are instructed to stay out of the matter and not endanger themselves further, Zeal and his fellow novices cannot stand aside. How can they, when their specific, intensive training can be used to help their friend? Against their Mentors' wishes, and in accordance with their lessons, the Apprentices plan and act in secret. As they fight the threat to their Trade family, Zeal and his cohort meet adventure at every turn, while Zeal discovers he has unusual powers of his own, including the ability to talk to the dead.