Hermogenes, although descended from a race of heroes, is content to run his business and leave valour to the legends. But when his father is killed, the young Greek is stirred to seek retribution. In Rome, corruption and prejudice are far easier found than justice. Hermogenes may be a citizen in name, but he is branded a barbarian by those who are Roman by birth - and the man who owes him money is a respected member of the city's government. As Hermogenes is drawn deeper into a maelstrom of political intrigue, he gains a formidable gladiator as his ally, a woman with scars on her heart as well as her body. Together they plot to defeat the consul at his own game. But how far is Hermogenes, willing to go to satisfy his own honour?