A sharp-tongued warrior uncovers treachery in the halls of Imperial court in this fantasy thriller sequel to Cast in Shadow. In Elantra, a job well done is rewarded with an even more dangerous task. And Kaylin, one of the city's most fearsome patrol Hawks, has just defeated a dark evil in the slums of Nightshade. Now she must enter a new realm of deceit and treachery-a place where silk and jewels hide deadly secrets.... Kaylin must go before the Barrani High Court, where a misspoken word brings sure death. And she's never been known for her grace or manners. But the High Lord's heir is suspiciously ill and Kaylin's healing magic is the only shot at saving him-if she manages to dodge the traps laid for her.