Thomas Peril, a good-looking man of unprecedented charm, realizes his role in the end of humanity. Roger Bravel, a middle-aged artist, shelters the twentieth host of Peril and witnesses the birth of a rapid-growing offspring. Sam Kiltner, a cop nearing retirement, discovers that the mass suicides and disappearances plaguing Philadelphia are a part of something larger, more sinister. Vince Day, a doomsdayer, crosses paths with Thomas Bravel, the offspring of the twentieth host, who might be humanity's last chance at survival.