Imperial Wizard Saul Karza has dragged himself and his companions through hell.Instead of falling into the Empress's arms and re-kindling their relationship, he finds she has regained her lost youth, leaving him old and frail.His strong position at court is at risk, as thanks to Brael's 'Truth', he is forced to make a stand against the tyranny of the church. Even if he can maintain his position, he risks losing more than one companion to the brutal 'Blood Trials'.