Believing Diad finally dead, Guina is free to marry the man she truly loves and makes him Lord Chamberlain in the process. But Konrud quickly discovers that being the Queen's husband matters little, and all the plotting and intrigue he experienced back in the Temple was mere child's play compared to the scheming, assassinations, and double-dealing at the Court.

At the top of the list is Pavia. Though she is under house arrest with Alric, that she was once Queen of Gambria, no matter how brief the days, only deepens her resentment and passion to reclaim what she believes is rightfully hers.

Next is Dade who has claimed the right to rule Glanon because he is the oldest son, though his father made his younger brother Bradach his heir... a mere technicality that Dade will soon correct.

Amidst the turmoil, Guina sends Duncan to talk some sense into Alexis who is still in Drunedun with the nation's tarracs. The meeting ought to be a surprise as Alexis believes Duncan is dead.

And has Raefgot, former wastrel and king's illegitimate son, finally found true love?