Relapse

Anson's forces have pushed Raina off the mainland, but the conflict is far from settled. From Catalina Island, she runs a guerrilla campaign designed to wear his strength down piece by piece. Every move she makes is matched by Lowell, his stern and determined lieutenant, who seems to anticipate her at each turn. Progress comes more slowly than she hoped, so she agrees to set up a war council, though its members grow less committed to the fight with each passing day. Pressure from enemies outside and doubt within leave her hold on the island slipping. Meanwhile, across the Pacific, Ness and his alien companion Sebastian have uncovered a danger that dwarfs the struggle over the island.