As Europe heads towards one of the most decisive battles in history, the British And their allies are preparing for a grand society ball in Brussels. Among the names on the glittering guest list is one very reluctant, newly promoted Lieutenant-Colonel Sharpe. Sharpes scouting reports of the huge French army marching towards Brussels go unheeded by a young And inexperienced commander, the Prince of Orange, who is infinitely more concerned with the flair of his dancing steps than apparent impending doom.