The novel “Matter” by Iain M. Banks was published for the first time in 2008. It’s part of the Culture series.

Prince Ferbin was almost killed during a battle. When he finds his father, King Hausk, he discovers that he’s injured but, even worse, he realizes that Mertis tyl Loesp, the man who is supposed to be the King’s best friend and his most trusted adviser, is taking advantage of the situation to kill him. Ferbin can get away without being noticed and flees, leaving everyone to presume that he died during the battle. Not knowing who is involved in the betrayal his only hope of defeating the traitor and save his brother Oramen is to get away from Sursamen and seek help in the Culture.