The Abeloth-induced Jedi psychosis continues to rage among their ranks, especially in Valin and Jysella Horn. Saba Sebathyne becomes interim Chief of State when the Jedi remove Daala from office. The Sith look to take out the Jedi Queen of their visions—leading them to Hapes.

Aaron Allston's interests are on display as this novel is full of espionage, political and military coups, romance, and Tahiri Veila's trial.