The Puppeteer Emerges from the Shadow of the Throne... Ever since the massacre at Riftwatch, Cob has reserved his hatred for one man: the necromancer Enkhaelen. Even after the Empire's corruption became clear, he remained fixated on Enkhaelen as its cause.But there is more at work than even a centuries-old puppet-master can control. From the streets of Bahlaer to the depths of Valent to the towering spires of the Imperial City, a grim tide is rising - bearing with it all the hostilities and unforgivable secrets that the Empire has tried to suppress. As cities, armies and friendships begin to tear themselves apart, Cob must face the realization that nothing can be trusted: not his memories, not his allies, not the Guardian. Not even his hate.