 In the mid-1700 s the East India Company has power over commerce on the sub-continent, with the blessings of the British government. A clerk in the company, Robert Clive, is frustrated by his lack of advancement, and transfers to the military arm of the company, where he excels. Clive s leadership and gift for manipulation strengthen England s hold over India and lead to personal wealth, which is often threatened by the enemies he makes along the way.