Lydia and Killian escaped their enemy's grasp, but not without consequences. While they race to destroy the blight, Lydia fights an internal war against the Corrupter's influence knowing defeat means death for those she loves. Tormented by a battle that can't be won with blades, Killian must find the queen they risked everything to rescue without falling prey to Corrupter's weapons, both living and dead.

Teriana and Marcus thwarted assassination, but now must live with the dark truths that have been revealed. As Teriana hunts for allies, she must face the dire circumstances of her imprisoned people, driving her to strike a dangerous deal with the Empire. Consumed by guilt over his crimes, Marcus embarks on an ambitious campaign to save those he condemned, which risks him becoming the conqueror the Empire desires him to be.

With the blight consuming everything in its path and the Empire crushing everyone who stands before it, Reath is falling beneath the tide of evil. Secrets will be revealed that break hearts even as they forge new alliances, but only the greatest sacrifices of all will turn the tide in the battle for the liberty of every nation on Reath.