Lord Cazaril has been, subsequently, courtier, castle-warder, and captain; today he is but a crippled ex-galley slave seeking nothing more than a menial job in the kitchens from the Dowager Provincara, the commendable patroness of his youth. But Cazaril finds himself promoted towards the exalted and harmful position of teacher to Iselle, the stunning, fiery sister from the heir to Chalion’s throne.

Amidst the decaying splendor and poisonous intrigue of Chalion’s ancient capital, Cazaril is forced to confront not only powerful foes but also the malignant curse that clings to the royal household, trapping him, flesh and soul, in a maze of demonic paradox, damnation, and death for so long as he dares walk the five-fold pathway from the gods.