A reluctant king. A swordswoman with a secret. A plot that could destroy them both. When Siv Amintelle ascends the throne of Vertigon, he's condemned to the drudgery of council meetings, strategic marriages, and the intrigues of ambitious noblemen. There aren't nearly enough sharp, pointy objects involved, and a certain swordswoman makes him want to abandon his duties at every opportunity. But the Peace of Vertigon is over, and unknown foes...