Usurper

In the spring after the Dark Lord's banishment, Ramlass plans his land's recovery. After a harsh winter he receives aid from neighboring lands and he visits his holdings to assess their needs. Beth remains behind as his unwilling regent. During the journey, Ramlass and his retinue are attacked by marauders. His soldiers are killed and he is taken prisoner. ruffians have come from an island kingdom north of the Twenty Lands and their leader Azuk gambles his fortunes on this venture. Not know who he has captured, he plans to extort a fee from the lord of Aldaldia.
During Ramlass' absence, Beth learns that she's pregnant but is distracted from this revelation by reports that Ramlass is missing and villages have been attacked. She and her advisors prepare for attack too late. The castle gate is still open when they are attacked. Ramlass escapes during the attack but is struck by an arrow. Now in possession of the castle, Azuk's plans change as he envisions himself as the lord.
Ramlass is found by a woodsman named Taugon and sheltered by the Watcher. He builds a rebel network and plans to regain his kingdom. He sends Taugon to Katronde to appeal for aid. Jéoffrey supports his plans and Katronde moves soldiers across the border. Disaster impends on the eve of the rebellion as a contingent of soldiers is nearly discovered and Ramlass uses himself a decoy but is captured. Only daring action on several fronts will save the day.