Set in the Greek city-state of Priene in 650 BCE, this fascinating murder mystery opens with Bias, a minor priest of Poseidon, being stalked by a murderer at the sacred grounds of the PanIonian, the religious and political center of the Ionic League.As Bias crouches at the back of the cave, he recalls the events at the previous weeks which would lead him to his predicament.While assisting at the opening of the PanIonic games by securing the blessing of Poseidon, Priene's best athlete is poisoned and dies in Bias’ arms. The citizens perceive Bias to be infected by “the miasma of death” and he is challenged with the responsibility of finding the killer.As the games progress, Bias is in the unenviable position of having to interrogate some very influential people and their families. The magistrates, athletes, and Aristocrats grow increasingly impatient with his murder investigation. When another favorite athlete is killed in a chariot race, the pressure on bias intensifies. Was it an accident? The athlete’s uncle doesn't think so.Bias has set the trap for the murderer on the sacred grounds of the PanIonian. Will he find a solution to these crimes in the darkness of the cave where the action began?