It is the year 1200, and young Arthur de Caldicot is about to leave his manor to fight in the Crusades. But before he leaves, he must untangle himself from a web of murder and blackmail...as well as the mystery of his birth. As the intrigue grows and affections become fierce, Arthur's connection to the ancient King Arthur emerges in tales of Camelot, featuring Merlin and Nimue, Arthur and Guinevere, and the knights of the legendary Round Table. In a violent world of conflict and injustice, the young Arthur - like the King before him - must defend himself with courage, compassion, and valor...the traits that will take him to his destiny. Book jacket.