In 1579, Francis Drake anchors in the Pacific Northwest after raiding the New World Spanish empire. He leaves a ship, twenty men, and a fortune in silver when he crosses the Pacific to complete his voyage around the world. The fate of the men, defenders of the New Albion claim for England, are missing from historic accounts. After attacks by natives and a shipwreck, the survivors seek the help of friendly tribes to survive and wait for a promised return by Drake to fortify the fledgling colony. External threats abound, as do internal dissensions over religion, leadership, and attempts to reunite with Drake and the Golden