King Ryons has led his tiny army into the heart of the Thunder King's dominion. Ahead lies the impregnable fortress of the enemy, defended by the destructive powers of the ancient world.

The First Prester, Lord Orth, continues his missionary work among the Heathen: for God has commanded him to establish a new Temple, one not made with human hands. But in the great city of Obann, they reject Orth's vision and seek to rebuild the old Temple with tainted gold amassed for the Thunder King by crime and violence.

In Ryons' absence, his enemies work to abolish his kingdom and restore the defeated Oligarchy. They now control a vast treasure in gold, to be used against the king, and no scruple hinders them. Can the boy king's few remaining loyalists stop them? Can they protect the kingdom until the king returns to claim it?

That is, it the king returns at all: for the way to the Thunder King's fortress is perilous beyond measure.