In the aftermath of Magna Carta "disinherited" Barons raided the City of Norwich to acquire funds for their failing cause, and met with little resistance.
In fear of hidden support for the rebellion the King sends agents to Norwich and thus Martin Den Helder and Sir Michel D'Artois are drawn into a city underworld of murder, extortion and crime that has some powerful, if secret, backing.
Like poking a hornets' nest, Den Helder and D'Artois feel the backlash of their enquiries.
Finally a vicious murder at the Trinity Fair escalates the atmosphere of tension and resentment...