<p>"Julian Stockwin, a master of the historic novel, writes with a zeal, re-creating ancient times, with fast-paced prose, vivid characters, and matchless authenticity." - QUARTERDECK MAGAZINE<br>Rome 549 AD. Forced to flee the city, merchant Nicander and legionary Marius escape to a new life<br>in Constantinople. Determined to make their fortune, they plot a number of outrageous money-making<br>schemes, until they chance upon their greatest idea...