For decades, the family of the Holdfasts have held sway over the Empire of the Sapphire Throne. They have defeated the Ascendants, and expanded their Empire into Dragon Eyre and the City of Salve. They have united the Star Continent, and have defended the right of mortals to rule themselves.

One Holdfast is about to change all that.

Cairney, the immortal son of Corthie Holdfast and Lady Aila of Pella, has been released from exile. With a small band of supporters, he plots to overthrow the rulers of the Empire and to place himself upon the throne – to reign like one of the great gods from the past. With Karalyn, Cael and Cole removed as a threat, can anyone stop Cairney before it is too late? Or will Cairney choose to use the ultimate weapon – the Sextant, to obliterate everything and everyone who stands in his way?