ONE PERSON HAS THE POWER TO CHANGE A NATION With the Midsummer Gathering upon them, Kariss and her supporters must finally risk coming face to face with Martaani and her Roman forces. As the people of Brigantia descend on Stanwick, confusion reigns as Martaani's secret captive finally escapes and succeeds in leading his Roman guards right into Kariss's camp. Captured, Kariss cannot attend the Gathering and stake her claim for the throne, but even if she can find a way of evading the legionnaires, Martaani has no intention of leaving Albion without a fight. It is soon obvious that battle is inevitable. Whilst the north gathers behind Kariss, rumours abound that Taratus is a traitor. Kariss is torn: he is her cousin and one of her dearest friends. Would he really betray her? Once again Kariss must put her faith in the gods. In the midst of battle, when Taratus holds life and death in his hands, she will find out if she has made the right choice.