AD 796. The high seas are a deadly place full of foes. Sailing in search of an object of great power, Hunlaf and his comrades are far from home when they are caught up in a violent skirmish against pirates.

After the bloody onslaught, an encounter with ships from Islamic Spain soon sees them escorted under guard to the city of Qadis: one of the jewels of the Emirate of Al-Andalus, the true destination of their voyage.

Al-Andalus is a realm of learning and incredible wealth. Hunlaf believes the Emir's lands hold the key to his search, but his task is not a simple one. There are dangerous games at play, and to achieve his goal, Hunlaf and his allies must walk a difficult path where friends and enemies alike are not always what they seem – and where a weapon deadlier than any yet seen could change the future of all the kingdoms in Europe.

'A brilliant characterization of a difficult hero in a dangerous time. Excellent!' Christian Cameron
'He is really proving himself the rightful heir to Gemmell's crown.' Jemahl Evans
'A genuinely superb novel.' Steven McKay
'Beobrand is the warrior to follow.' David Gilman