Eight-year-old Emperor Ivan is left alone against numerous contenders for the throne of the Russian Empire. While ships destroyed by American and Ottoman fleets still smolder at the borders, a new war is already flaring up in the heart of the state. Ptolemy Grous, Admiral Desse, and imperial princes—who have proclaimed themselves the rightful heirs to the throne—challenge the young ruler, seeking to remove him from the way. It seems an inexperienced boy can’t compete with battle-hardened traitor admirals—but history knows cases where youth and courage beat experience and cold calculation. Besides, perhaps the young emperor isn’t as inexperienced as he seems at first glance.