This is a tale of the sixth century Byzantine Emperor Justin I. As a young man Justin embarks on an adventure of a lifetime after barbarians force him to flee his homeland. He finds a new life in Constantinople where he joins the Imperial Guards. Justin climbs the ranks to become a high-ranking officer and fights in many campaigns defending the Empire. Just when he thinks he has fought his last battle, rebellion and palace intrigue combine to force Justin into the fight of his life. The battle is for control of the Empire and the prize is the Imperial Throne.