In the tradition of Robert Van Gulik's classic Judge Dee mysteries, I J Parker introduces a sharp-witted detective in 11th-century Japan. Chafing under his dull assignments as a clerk in the Ministry of Justice, the young nobleman Akitada Sugawara welcomes the chance to work under cover to help his old professor at the Imperial University. Quickly drawn into a net of gossip, petty rivalry, and murder, Akitada is then approached by one of his students, Lord Minamoto, whose grandfather has disappeared under odd circumstances. Lord Minamoto does not believe the pious tale of his grandfather's miraculous transfiguration and asks Akitada to investigate. Plunging into a dangerous investigation of conspiracy among high-ranking nobles, Akitada must help the young lord, all the while gathering clues to help save his old mentor before it is too late.