Book III of Fool's Gold. The Goddess of Elda, the Rose of the World is now free and married to King Raven of the Northern Isles. But the ships of the Southern Empire under the fanatical leadership of of Lord Issian, are bringing holy war to the North; and she may become a prize of combat. Meanwhile, Katla Aransen has been abducted by Istrian raiders into the harem of Rui Finco, Lord of Forent; she will learn the hardship suffered by Southern women. Saro Vingo is imprisoned below the Eternal City, forced to listen to the cries of those tortured by his insane brother Tanto, Issian's henchman. Forces are gathering for a terrible war. North will fight South - unless the guardianship of Elda is taken from the bloody hands of warmongers and returned to those who truly care for it. Cover art by Melvyn Grant.