Amutpiel builds the Hanging Gardens while Nebuchadnezzar builds a golden statue but can’t force the Judean captives to bow down to it. He is losing the loyalty of the Babylonian generals as they perceive his weakness towards the Jews. Nevertheless, he conquers Jerusalem again in 597 BC and humiliates their king, though he has a strange respect for their prophet, Jeremiah.

Borebaal demonstrates his control over his city, particularly through his high priest, Belseduqa, whose evil knows no limits. The number of true believers in Babylon grows. Even Joshua’s brother comes to faith. Joshua proves to be clumsy with a female love interest, Rebekah, who fights her own demons of childhood abuse, but finally finds common ground.

The Judean axe man lays waste to the Amalekite army, but eventually has to sacrifice himself for his true love. A stranger shows up at Joshua’s wedding. Daniel continues to lead the wise men in their faith.