Emperor Sarabian’s enemies are regrouping and once again plan to attempt to take the empire for themselves. Sparhawk and Queen Ehlana must do everything they can to educate the Tamuli Emperor in the art of leadership if they are to have any chance of standing against the evil forces that threaten their kingdoms.But more disturbing than the political machinations of court, there have been reported sightings of Shining Ones among the hordes of monsters roaming the land. If Sparhawk and his allies are to have any hope of defeating this growing threat they must resurrect the sacred jewel of the Troll-Gods, otherwise the fate of not just their kingdoms, but the entire world, will be at stake