Two boys appeal to the famed Roman oracle for a glimpse into their future and the Sybil draws an omen of death. As they flee from the cave in fear Aulus and Lucius make an oath of loyalty until death - one that will be tested in the years to come. Thirty years on and Aulus now Rome's most successful general faces his toughest battle. Barbarian rebels have captured his wife and are demanding the withdrawal of Roman legions from their land. It is unthinkable for Aulus to agree and he fears she must be forfeit for Rome. Meanwhile Lucius has risen to high rank in the Senate; a position he abuses. But when Lucius is linked to a murder the foundations of the Republic are threatened. Lucius and Aulus soon find themselves on different sides of the conflict the old prophecy hanging over them. . .

Part of the The Republic Trilogy series.