Luke is ordered by the King to investigate the intrigues and deaths surrounding the King’s forthcoming marriage-with particular emphasis on England’s foreign policy and national security.

The increased attacks on past mistresses and potential wives might be central to these concerns or stem from the simple jealousy of women anxious to obtain the King’s favour or lying about their past relationships, conflicts often within the same family; or do these current problems stem from events that occurred during the King’s decade in exile; or the current greed and ambition of powerful noble dynasties.