Rome has fallen into darkness.
Its legacy remains alive in Constantinople, whose leaders struggle to retain control of a decaying land. Yet famine, war, and an encroaching night leave the Eastern Empire trending towards ruin.
Faint hope arises as a new dynasty ascends to the throne of Caesar. Bearing witness to such events is Varus, a young Herulian slave to the aging yet powerful Justin, who unveils a bold plan held by two generations of Romans to retake the West and reclaim their homeland.
Following Justins dream, Varus enlists with the Roman Army and discovers the carnage of 6th Century warfare. As a mysterious horde of black-shielded invaders devastates the Empires northern provinces, Varus unit is called upon to defend under the leadership of Belisarius, one of Justins most promising commanders.
As Varus prepares for the sacrifices to come, however, he begins to question Justins secrets, seeking answers regarding his true identity and place as a pivotal figure in the Empires survival.