"The city of Newbegin is under siege from an army of Sand-Eaters. While Watchman Dexus struggles to contain the fallout from Michael and Abi's escape, Lord Founder Marcus is more concerned with the stability of his council. Believing Abi dead, Jakob has joined the city's army to repel the invaders. But to succeed, he must reach out to men he would normally call enemies. Meanwhile Golden Voice, in hiding with Sunner sympathizers, begins a march toward freedom. And while the Disciples fight for their city at the gates, the Sand-Eaters' own secret weapon is on the move. Mebsaa, a deadly warrior and lover of the King of Sand, leads a squad of assassins to infiltrate Newbegin's highest levels."--P. [4] of cover.