A Heliumite prince intervenes to protect a Ptarth princess from a forcible suitor, an act that triggers a sweep of romantic danger and political complications across a dying, martial Mars. The narrative follows betrayals, enslavement, and daring rescues as hostile green warriors, white apes, and enigmatic phantom bowmen threaten cities and caravans. Characters maneuver among rival jeddaks, mount battles on open plains, and attempt perilous missions to free captives; loyalty, sacrifice, and martial skill determine outcomes. The book alternates brisk action with episodes of courtly ritual and exotic worldbuilding.