2 yrs have passed since the war. The Primate is normally dead, the machines at Stonewater have been destroyed, however without essence the Empire’s economy has collapsed. Trade reaches a standstill, famine sets in, and, without food and no essence, the people start to riot. In the midst of the growing unrest, Miro problems to balance his existence with Amber against his handle to keep dangers to the Empire at bay. His sister Ella really helps to build the machinery the Empire frantically needs, but she longs to find Killian and is convinced his capabilities will be required in the issue to come. News of a marriage brings a much-needed ray of hope to the weary people. But simply because citizens and leaders collect from afar for the festivities, an wicked threat shatters the fragile peace: one of the Evermen offers returned. And he will not rest until he provides completely ruined the human beings he despises.