A vast Greek fleet has gathered at Aulis, ready for the assault on Troy. But a prophecy says the first man ashore will die, and unease spreads among the soldiers. Across the sea Troy prepares to defend herself. Palisades have been built overlooking the beach, and neighbouring cities have promised help. Better still, Mursili the Hittite is making dozens of iron blades, each one stronger than any weapon in all Greece. Isander of Elis dreamed of winning glory in battle. He is among the assembled Greeks, but what awaits him on the shores of Troy is greater and more terrible than he can have imagined.