Ascendant King Jaron believes that his kingdom, Carthya, is at peace. Sailing home from a trade mission with his betrothed, Imogen, their ship is attacked by Prozarians. Along with several of his friends, Jaron is taken prisoner. The Prozarian captain seems to believe Jaron had something to do with his parents' deaths. They also know a great deal about Jaron's long-missing older brother, Darius, the rightful heir to Carthya-- who may be alive after all.

Sequel to: The shadow throne.