A new queen and a new war. Ryia has claimed the crown of Messiana, despite Prince Phillip's attempted coup that left both him and Commander Wannacha dead... Or did it? A secret stash of documents has revealed that there was more to the deceased Commander than originally revealed, secrets that made even the first king of Messiana, Matthias, wary. What are these secrets? How did the king that has been dead for three centuries know Wannacha? Why was Wannacha so insistent that A'lie get taken to the ancient fortress of Irridun? Why is the Pale Guard willing to start a war for the child? Questions are answered, loyalties are questioned, bonds are broken, and blood is shed as Messina is plunged into another war that threatens its existence. However, actual war may just be starting...and threaten more than just Messiana...