Two expeditions in the Zone unite for the sake of survival, but attempts to destroy them become stronger and more persistent. In addition, the survivors understand that they have become hostages of a big game between the authorities and the minds of others, and they feel irreversible changes in themselves, in which, perhaps, there is their only chance of salvation. Meanwhile, to the same Zone, an irresistible force draws Gleb, the son of the master Artist, a unique child with incredible abilities, and the envoys of the mysterious Initiate. But time is running out for everyone, because a new owner appears in the Zone, who, in the heart of the Swamp, creates an army of deadly biomorphs to invade human lands.