1826. Shaka, king of the Zulus, has brutally consolidated his power, and is ready to move against those who continue to resist his authority. But now a new tribe has emerged: white men from across the Great Water, claiming they wish to trade with Shaka. As the king grows increasingly obsessed with these outsiders, he becomes oblivious to the threat growing from within his own court. Only Shaka's loyal captain and his young sidekick can thwart this conspiracy. But to succeed, their wits will need to be as sharp as their enemies' knives.