At the court of Tergan intrigues fester as the ruling family tears itself apart. Even Sander, Councillor to the court and self-appointed guardian of the Princess Evadne, may not be able to protect her from those who want to rid themselves of her for good. Since these include her eldest brother, what chance does she have?

Meanwhile, in Keaen, Armist has to deal with the consequences of his revolution, avert an imminent rebellion by the Barons and prevent the disintegration of his kingdom. But the deadly intentions of Tergan's ruling dynasty extend to him as well.