But Narragan has traded a sadistic military governor for a smooth-talking political emissary and a telepathic spy, the Emperor insists he produce an heir, Orgon's Council of Lords is plotting behind his back, and the woman he loves has returned after a five-year absence, decked out in Triden leathers and pregnant courtesy a husband who's in hot pursuit. The Period of Punishment may be over, but the Third Reign of the Highlord of Darkness is off to a rocky start. This is no way to found a dynasty.