The Mars Tranquilus finally arrives in Jing, but Chief Justice Anthea and High Brother Luc find their problems are only beginning. A handful of Crown Prince Bao Quan Po's cousins each make their own play for the dragon throne. The former imperial consort plots revenge on his stepson from prison. And then there's the odd Skoloti woman who shows up every time there's an attempt on Quan's life. Is she an ally? Or does she plan to collect the Assassins Guild's bounties on Anthea and Shi Hua? And what's her connection to Reverend Father Chen and his missing army? Magic and mayhem have never been this suspicious. Or this lethal.