"When defeat is inevitable there are only two options: go out on their terms, or yours. At last, the Roman Empire is winning one of its most savage wars. Only the Dalmatians under Bato remain in the fight, and this brutal leader holds the life of a former Roman standard bearer in his hands. Corvus is spared only on the condition that he fights against Rome as a rebel, but his enemies are everywhere. The Romans want his head, and the treacherous Ziva-his supposed ally - is a constant threat. The entire might of Rome is now directed against Bato's army. Legion after legion covers the landscape. Thousands die. There is no mercy. And there, in the fire of the rebellion's last stand, Corvus must face his greatest betrayer-Marcus."--back Cover.