In Ethrea, Rhian sits upon a precarious throne. Defiant dukes who
won't accept her rule threaten the stability of her kingdom. Dexterity
has been banished from her court in disgrace. The blue-haired slave
Zandakar, the man she thought was her friend, has been revealed as the
son of a woman sworn to destroy her world. And Rhian's husband, King
Alasdair, is unsure of her love.
The trading nations refuse to
believe Mijak is a threat, and promise reprisals if she dares protect
her realm. Only Emperor Han of mysterious Tzhung-tzhungchai knows that
the danger from Mijak is real.
But is he an ally, or an enemy in
disguise? As she struggles to learn the truth, and keep her embattled
crown, the murderous warhost of Mijak advances...