The Delta Company makes its way south, risking discovery, capture and torture at every turn. At Twist they kidnap Margaret’s son Roger and persuade to join them as a military advisor.

Clare, Riven and Janet rally their marshland allies for battle, encountering Bethany along the way.

The Battle for the Black Fen ensues. When it is over, it looks as if the Marshlanders retain enough wetlands to survive, but they find continuing trouble at Dunlin. A neighboring village has been attacked by farmers and merchants who are fearful about William’s new drainage machinery and try to destroy it. William convinces them they can use the new technology for community good. Clare and William are reunited with Bethany. Clare realizes that she is pregnant, and thus their world begins again.