After a deadly battle that claims the lives of friend and foe alike, Cedric realizes he must offer his sword to save the Empire from a growing rebellion. He sets out to get ahead of the bandit army lumbering across the countryside, destroying all that is good in its path. But he soon discovers he has other obstacles to overcome- a doomsday prophet, a rain-swollen river, and foolish leaders. In the midst of all the chaos and confusion, Cedric begins to feel an inkling of love. Love that he thought he left behind at RoseThorn when he lost his wife to Death. Will Cedric be able to meet the growing bandit threat head on? Will he be able to protect his friends? And will he find love or disappointment in a world turned upside down?