While working for the National Underwater and Marine Agency, Dirk Pitt and Al Giordino uncover the deadly plans of a Mongolian mogul to deal oil to the Chinese and ruin the global market, and discover the scheme is linked to the treasures of Genghis Khan.

"Zhu Yuanzhang, the Radiant King, is riding high after her victory that tore southern China from its Mongol masters. Now she burns with a new desire: to seize the throne and crown herself emperor. But Zhu isn't the only one with imperial ambitions. Her neighbor in the south, the courtesan Madam Zhang, wants the throne for her husband--and she's strong enough to wipe Zhu off the map. To stay in the game, Zhu will have to gamble everything on a risky...