Set in an alternative Roman Empire...the activities of a certain Jew, Paul Troax, have attracted the attention of the Roman Military Intelligence. They suspect his efforts to spread Christianity are politically motivated. Imperial Army psychiatrist has been ordered to keep Paul under surveillance but in doing so he begins to value Paul as a friend and can respect his zeal. But now Paul is imprisoned in Rome and the Emperor Nero plans to use his trial to instigate a pogrom against the city's Christians, thus drawing attention from his own follies. Can Lucas persuade Paul to co-operate in his escape?