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.

Smith and Helen’s true loyalties are placed on trial by an old nemesis. The BCR struggles to maintain order across the JPS. Kido is forced to confront his atrocities. Bands of roving vigilantes threaten Childan and Yukiko.