After Henry of Lancaster's rebellion has been crushed, a restless peace settles over England. But the young Edward III is no longer content with being his regents' puppet, and soon enough Adam is torn between his loyalty to the young king—and that to his former lord, Roger Mortimer, now co-regent and effective ruler of England.

Edward III is growing up fast. No longer a boy to be manipulated, he resents the power of Mortimer and his mother, Queen Isabella. His regents show little inclination of handing over their power to him, the rightful king, and Edward suspects they never will unless he forces their hand.

Adam de Guirande is first and foremost Edward's man, and he too is of the opinion that the young king is capable of ruling on his own. But for Adam siding with his king causes heartache, as he still loves Roger Mortimer, the man who shaped him into what he is.

Inevitably, Edward and his regents march toward a final confrontation. And there is nothing Adam can do but pray and hope that somehow things will work out. Unfortunately, prayers don't always help.