Hafer and Tera, pursued by the enemies of the throne, are forced to seek help from Anuirat—the wolf-headed guards of the Emhet Lords. But how far does the loyalty of mighty warriors extend—only as far as the ancient treaty requires?
Hateper returns to the direct branch of the Emhet lineage as the new heir to the throne. The imperial family searches for ways to preserve the fragile peace, but the queen’s plans are getting closer to being realized…
The former bodyguard of Hafer—imprisoned in a priestly sanctuary—learns the mysteries of the origin of the Remae people, and also what is actually hidden behind the Waessir Curse.
Reneph returns to Taur-Duat to answer for what happened in Lebaye. Unknowingly, he helps restore the missing fragment in the investigation.
All of the Empire marks the Overflow of the Great River. The annual festival is a time of reconciliations, sometimes quite unexpected. But the Lord’s forces are fading, and this Overflow may be the last for him.
Aniiret’s training reaches a new stage. Drawn into court secrets, she notices more than others assume—and with the help of her closest ally begins her own investigation.
Meanwhile, along the queen’s ranks, a wave of terrifying unexplained deaths rolls…