Although Book Two begins with a celebration after the almost miraculous victory of the First Battle of Howicke, it takes no time at all to find that there are individuals practicing treachery, murder and skullduggery. Despite this, the young King is forced to make political decisions, that could push his new allies beyond their usual self -interests and concerns. Forced by the possibility of another invasion of Righfearran, Alasdair and his allies, relocate the people of Mor Cairn, send an army to relieve Dunanach, and put out the call to all those loyal to the new King, to gather at Howicke to face a vast Imperial army seeking to annihilate them.

And in the midst of all this political turmoil and death-defying action, Alasdair surprisingly, finds himself in significant relationships with three gifted and strong-willed women.