Peril prowls the empire's roads and the halls of power. With danger around every corner, there are decisions to make and consequences to bear as Lord Scanlon's schemes to usurp the empire wax and wane with failure and success.
Whilst Prince Tain grapples with his future, loyalty is scrutinised and long-held trust eroded. Whom can the FitzAlcis believe with ever-present treachery and even the army under suspicion?