Book One, Chapters 8-11 Summary

Eleanor accuses John of again scheming behind Richard's back after some rumors reach the royal court, but John successfully convinces her that he has been loyal to Richard since the fiasco during Richard's kidnapping in Austria. John goes to Brittany to visit his nephew, Arthur, where he receives news from his friend William de Braose that Richard has died of a battle wound. John has been named Richard's heir. John sneaks away before Arthur can hear the news. Eleanor warns John that Arthur plans to fight his ascension to the crown. That spring, Thomas Corbet, LLewelyn's cousin by marriage, is traveling in Powys with an acquaintance. Before the two men can reach their destination, they learn it is under siege by Llewelyn. Llewelyn has succeeded in capturing all of Gwynedd and is now attempting to seize control...