A younger Batiatus finds himself newly in control of his father’s gladiator school. He uses his most skilled fighter to win favor with a cunning nobleman behind the building of the new arena.

Batiatus’ father announces a tournament to determine the worth of the men that make up his stable of gladiators. Crixus, dedicated to proving himself, is drawn into the power play within the house.

Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood.

While Spartacus finds an opportunity to get revenge, Glaber is surrounded by intrigue.

Spartacus has to once again use his leadership skills to convince his band of rebels to unite against the Roman assault. Lucretia struggles to get rid of those men standing in the way of her fate.