A vivid fictional portrait of a unique historical figure that fully captures the battle of nations during the height of the European slave trade.

Based on the real-life story of Anabia, Prince of Assynie, or what is now known as the Ivory Coast, Prince Ebène recounts the astonishing adventures of a real-life African prince who became Louis XIV’s protégé. Next in line to the throne of a country rich in natural resources, including gold, Anabia is accepted into the court of the French king and baptized by his legendary prelate Jacques Bossuet. After becoming the Sun King’s godchild, he is ordained Musketeer and granted a considerable allowance. Invited to all major events, including balls and hunting parties, he is introduced to and falls in love with Marguerite de Caylus, niece of the famous courtesan Madame de Maintenon. Despite herself, she too falls in love with the alluring prince and warns him against the kingdom’s intention to exploit his country for the slave trade. He does not listen to her, and when news reaches him that Assynie’s ruler, King Zena, has died, he leaves his life at court in order to claim the African throne. Upon his arrival, he learns that he must wait for the interim king to die first before he can make his rightful claim. Meanwhile, he becomes his minister and learns that Marguerite’s warnings have indeed proven correct. The kingdoms of France and Assynie have joined forces in an effort to turn his country into a slave producing machine. Betrayed by his country and abandoned by the French king, Anabia, in a Count of Monte Cristo-like finale, returns to France incognito in order to avenge his best friend’s murder by an officer of Louis XIV.