Abel encounters a girl with abilities both strange and deadly. When she attempts to flee, Abel must turn against his own in order to save her life.

After returning to Rome and joining AX, Sister Esther encounters a crying boy on the vast grounds. Following her attempts at comforting him, she learns that he is none other than Pope Alessandro.

The murder of clergy in Amsterdam, their bodies drained of blood, draws Lady Caterina's attention. The local vampires, fearing Vatican retribution, seek out those responsible as Father Hugue investigates.

AX scrambles to prevent Rosen Kreuz from destroying Rome with the Silent Noise device, but they may have to act without Abel. Driven by despair, Abel considers turning in his gun.

Under house arrest, Lady Caterina finds herself face to face with a manipulative enemy. Abel's efforts to save her result in an encounter with a dangerous new foe.

While in Londinium for the Queen of Albion's funeral, Esther and Pope Alessandro are taken hostage by vampires. The AX must rescue them before Cardinal Medici makes a martyr of the Pope.

The AX, the Inquisitorial Department, and the rebel terrorists each race to find Pope Alessandro first. Meanwhile, the Rosen Kreuz prepares to exploit the crisis for its own sinister purpose.

Rosen Kreuz soldiers slaughter the underground populace, while Petro battles to guide the Pope to safety. Abel's confrontation with Dietrich leads to a foe of even greater power.

Cain and Isaak Fernand von Kampfer begin the first phase of their quest to destroy the people of the world, both human and vampire. Meanwhile, a startling revelation awaits Esther, one that will forever reshape her destiny.

Allies and enemies, both human and vampire, work together against the enemy of the world - the Contra Mundi. Resurrected from the grave, not even death can keep Abel Nightroad from his fate.