The main character, Darrow, is twenty years old and has been training relentlessly to command his own fleet of warships. He is training alongside Tactus au Rath and Victra au Julii. Victra introduces him to Jackal of Augustus family. Jackal was banished by his father after he was set up by Pliny, his father’s chief advisor. Darrow claims to be loyal to the Augustus family, but he is secretly planning for their downfall. As well, Darrow works for the Sons of Ares secretly. However, he has a conflict with the Bellona family because he killed Julian au Bellona.
Jackal has gained control over the media and intends to use his influence and power to depose Sons of Ares and Sovereign. Besides, he wants to mend fences with his father. On the other hand, Sovereign intends to see the Bellona family wiping out the Augustus family in order to rule Mars. Augustus family and Bellona family are in conflict. Darrow is also considered an enemy by Bellona’s family. When Darrow starts fighting with Cassius, a member of the Bellona family, Sovereign comes to Cassius rescue. Sovereign breaks the law, which states that the fight should see one of the fighters dead. Following the incident, Darrow realizes that Sovereign is not to be trusted. Therefore, he joins Augustans in fleeing.
A war is launched on Bellona-controlled places. During the war, Darrow realizes that some Golds are not as bad as portrayed. The book explores a situation where the ruling class is undermining low-class people in society. The ruling class tries to exercise total power and influence over people, particularly minorities. People in power always do everything possible to retain power. However, courageous low-class people like Darrow face the ruling class head-on. Such kind of boldness creates a path to liberation.
