Having learned the truth of the betrayals by both her father and Atilla, Flavia Aetia dons her father's armor and leads the Prefect's legion back to Rome. Assuming the identity of Flavius Aetius, she attempts to persuade the Empress-Regent and the Senate to give her command of all of Rome's legions so that she can lead them against the Huns - but they are distrustful.

There are wheels in motion in the seat of the Orbis. The High Councillor has long coveted the Emperor's throne, and he won't allow Flavius Aetius to stand in his way.