Outlawed by the ruthless Lionstone XIV, Owen Deathstalker is left with no allies, as even his oldest companions turn against him for the promise of fortune. Just as he is sure his life is coming to an imminent close, out of the sky falls Hazel d'Ark. The fellow outlaws escape together to Mistworld, not knowing what their next move will be. Meanwhile, Lionstone XIV, not the least bit unnerved by the new alien species threatening the Empire, continues to execute traitors in the terrifying and murderous fashion she is reputed for.