Book 2 in the High King series. The wheel of power has turned. King Constans lies dead in St Alban’s chapel. Now Vortigern wears the crown; High King at last. Beside him stands a young warrior who has earned a new name – ‘The King’s Right Arm’. Kerin Brightspear, the king-maker, Vortigern’s devoted companion, has proved himself to the man who saved his life. But as they confront the Picts at Hadrian’s Wall, enemies within are already plotting the High King’s downfall. Mercenary captain Hengist and his Jute warriors have sworn allegiance, but will they betray him too? Amidst chaos and bloodshed, Kerin faces his greatest test as the family of the woman he loves plot to seize Vortigern’s power, pushing the kingdom to the edge of civil war.