The Kingdom of Charis and the Kingdom of Chisholm have joined together, pledged to stand against the tyranny of a corrupt Church. The youthful Queen Sharleyan of Chisholm has wed King Cayleb of Charis, forging a single dynasty, a single empire, dedicated to the defense of human freedom. Yet there are things Sharleyan still does not know. Secrets Cayleb has not been permitted to share, even with her--and these secrets may threaten all they have achieved between them ... and her own life.