Leaving his monastic life, Aidan the scribe heads with a band of monks for the fabled city of Byzantium, there to present a priceless book to the Emperor of all Christendom. Thus begins an incredible journey. In its course, Aidan will see more of the world than most men of his times, becoming an ambassador to kings and an intimate of Byzantium's Golden Court. Finally, this valiant monk must face the greatest trial that can confront any man in any age: mastering his own destiny.