In the spring of 1861, the bombardment of Fort Sumter might have ended with the garrison's rapid surrender and their dignified return to the North. Instead, the fort was laid completely waste when its armory was struck, with the loss of every man, provoking a storm of vengeful anger across the North - and prompting some moderate Southerners to view the Secessionist cause, and the threat of civil war, with greater concern and alarm.

Among their number is a US Army Colonel Robert E. Lee. Scion of one of Virginia's most powerful and respected families, he has spent his entire adult life in the uniform of the United States and risen high in every respect. Yet he also holds a deep and abiding devotion to the South and his home state, far deeper than any other, save for his own family.

Now, with Sumter in ruins, and Virginia teetering between loyalty and secession, Lee must make his choice. To him, secession poses great danger and potential destruction to the entire nation - a danger that will be brought to his own home should Virginia choose this course. But if his home state leaves the Union he has served for so long, can he continue his service to that Union? And if he can, will he be forced to lead armies against his birthplace, thus branding himself a traitor across the South? What will be the consequences - for himself and the country?