Nothing in Constantinople is as it should be this winter of 525. It is unnaturally cold; the Emperor Justin is dying, and Theodora, the ambitious former actress his gravely ill successor Justinian intends to marry is making demands in the imperial court.

When a wealthy philanthropist is killed in broad daylight in the Great Church, it isn't entirely surprising that the future ruler Justinian engages an anonymous young slave caleed John to investigate what many believe could be part of a conspiracy aimed at swaying the succession. Among the suspects are many whose lives might be touched by an emperor: from senators, churchmen, and wealthy businessmen to laborers, beggars, and prostitutes.

In this prequel to the series, John takes his first dangerous steps along the path toward freedom from slavery and his eventual appointment as Lord Chamberlain.