As the world descends into ever darker chaos, Alaric Lambrecht seeks vengeance. No matter the cost. In Washington, evil takes another step toward true power. In the west, the 8th Battalion advances a terrible plan. The Shades' refuge is in ashes. Alaric's path takes him deep into 8th Battalion territory, and on a collision course with Raven Ivany and Zero, bringing Shadows and Shifters, Sages and Shades all together with a common enemy. The question is, can they together take the fight to the mastermind who is tearing the country apart - and defeat him?