Hal, his Brotherband crew, and the Ranger Gilan have freed the twelve Araluens sold into slavery. Returning to Araluen, Gilan is given a new mission by King Duncan: protect his daughter's life. Princess Evanlyn has survived one attempt on her life already, and now whispers of a second attempt have reached the kingdom. A deadly sect known as the Scorpion Cult is thought to be behind the assassination threat. Not waiting to see if the knife will strike true, the Brotherband again joins forces with Gilan to track down the would-be killers.

Princess Cassandra has already survived one assassination attempt, but when a second attempt proves Scorpion Cult is involved, Hal, his crew, and the Ranger Gilan are dispatched to ensure her safety. The plot contains violence. Book #5