The time is centures past the death of Oberon, and the events of To Dance With the Devils.

Benedict sits upon the throne of Amber. Some would say that his rule has not been a just or kind one, but they would not say it out loud, at least not in the streets of Amber City. Since being placed upon the throne by the Unicorn, Benedict has been growing more and more dissatisfied with those around him, and he exerts exacting control over all he can. It is presumed that most of the Elders are hiding in shadow, waiting for Benedict to calm down; the exceptions to this rule - and those remaining subject to Benedict's rule - are:

Gerard - while not liking all of Benedict's methods has remained by his side as a loyal servant of the throne
Caine - remains as the Admiral of the fleets of Amber
Julian - stoically guards Arden, as he always has
Fiona - grumpily serves as Amber's living switchboard, coordiating all necessary Trump communication

Benedict's actions, while objectionable to some, are always back by strong reasoning. He never acts without cause, and he doesn't really overreact. Certainly, he has the support of the Amber nobility behind him, as well as most every leader of the GoldenCircle. Those who take the time to discuss their misgivings with Benedict tend to find their way to agreement with the King.

Benedict tightly controls both the Shadow of Amber and all of the Golden Circle.