The story continues as William and his female companions try to survive life as slaves in Blotvarda. Knowing the High Mistress has no intention of ever letting them free, they must find a way to outwit her by somehow winning this mysterious tournament and taking the price for themselves. To do this, first they must grow stronger. But William is about to learn that Cultivation is so much more than absorbing essence, and that the price to power always demands proportional sacrifice. One he might not be willing to pay.