Prince Sparhawk is pledged to fight the enemies of the Tamul emperor, Sarabian with all the skill and cunning of a Pandion Knight. Meanwhile, his queen, Ehlana educates Sarabian in the art of ruthless statesmanship. Sarabian is no longer a puppet ruler but a formidable politician. Trolls, vampires, werewolves and zombies form a conspiracy to take over the empire and most disturbing of all are reported sightings of Shining Ones among the hordes. These luminous beings inspire more fear than the rest combined. Sparhawk and his companions must resurrect the sacred jewel of the Troll-Gods to combat them.