The galaxy is divided, but while the Emperor's armies prepare for battle, he himself, surprisingly, continues to be absent. In his place is Malcador - the legendary Sigillite, First Lord of Terra and regent to the Throne - who appears to be the most powerful person in the Imperium at the moment. Army officer Khalid Hassan returns to report to the Palace after an ill-fated secret operation in the deserts of Gypt, but soon learns the horrifying truth about humanity's fate. To whom and what is Malcador truly loyal?