Pericles stands in the shadow of his father: a man who once saved Athens.

To make his own name he must prove himself in the liar's den of Athenian politics: pitting wits against friends, sceptics, enemies.

But words alone do not make a leader.

A force of Persians threatens the city and Pericles must find courage on the battlefield.

In its time of need, Athens' warriors must be lions . . .