Book II of the Tamuli. Before Queen Ehlana took a hand in his education, the Tamul Emperor Sarabian was a mere puppet ruler. His territories were prey to insurrection; Sparhawk and the giant Atans crushed one such rebellion within the gates of the Tamul capital Matherion. But greater turmoil threatens: Trolls, Cyrgai, vampires, ghouls, zombies and Ogres form a conspiracy to take over the Empire. Most disturbing of all, reports of Shining Ones amongst the hordes. The luminous beings inspire more fear than the rest combined. There are divine masterminds involved in the conspiracy against Sarabian and he must emulate Ehlana's ruthless statesmanship if he is to hold the centre of his Empire together as Sparhawk defends the far flung Tamul Empire. Cover art by Geoff Taylor.