Unable to accept Kal’s fate, Charlie suits up and becomes an army of one in a daring attempt to save Kal from the Sworne. But whether or not she succeeds, Charlie’s belief in Kalatas is now riddled with doubt and worry.

Meanwhile the battle at Clabonne has left more questions than answers about why the Sworne stole a large volume of darakar. However, Charlie, Kal, and the Zodiac Pack may find a spark of hope when they discover a mysterious scientist named Talyn has escaped his bonds from the Sworne. Talyn may be the key to defeating the Sworne, but he is frightened and unwilling to confess the Sworne’s secrets and instead requests to be taken off-world from Kander.

Before Charlie begins her next mission, they enjoy the Kaldr Festival, indulge in Kal’s anti-rut and make the boldest move yet by publicly announcing their relationship as true mates. After the festival, Kander turns its attention to the future war with the Sworne. Can Kander be ready in time? And will they learn what secrets Talyn holds about the Sworne, willingly or by force?