Juliana Crain finds herself in a new world. In the wake of an attack on Trade Minister Tagomi, Chief Inspector Kido begins a crackdown against the suspected culprits: the Black Communist Rebellion. John Smith leads a military incursion into the Neutral Zone to capture Wyatt Price and his rebel army. Helen Smith’s new independence is tested as John comes to claim his daughters.

John Smith receives key intelligence from his officers at the Die Nebenwelt complex, while back at home he struggles with the changing dynamics of his family. Bell Mallory and the BCR join forces with Wyatt Price’s rebels. Kido tries to bond with his estranged son, Toru. Childan makes a connection with his Japanese assistant. Juliana discovers an enemy in one world can be a friend in another.

John Smith is forced to confront the choices he’s made. The Empire attempts secret peace talks with the BCR. Kido arrests a traitor, threatening to divide the Japanese against themselves. Helen is assigned a new security minder. Juliana reunites with Wyatt to plan the fall of the American Reich.

John Smith discovers that one can get lost on the path not taken. Juliana attempts to decode hidden messages from Abendsen. Amid voices of dissent, Bell devises a new strategy for the BCR. Kido must decide where his true loyalties lie, even if it costs him the Empire.

The BCR launches a massive assault across the JPS, and Kido finds the fate of the Empire in his hands. Childan becomes a captive of the Kempeitai. Helen resolves to support her husband by re-entering public life. Juliana and Wyatt arrive in New York to plan a daring new strategy against Smith.