Naked Empire by Terry Goodkind

A new empire is rising — one built on lies, fear, and the enslavement of souls. When Richard Rahl, the Seeker of Truth, is poisoned by a mysterious stranger, he is forced to undertake a perilous journey into the heart of enemy lands to find the cure. But time is running out, and the poison threatens not only his life, but the balance of the world itself.

As Richard and Kahlan confront an army of zealots who believe freedom is a sin, they uncover a movement that seeks to enslave all who dare to think for themselves. To survive, Richard must challenge the very foundation of belief — and stand against a darkness that feeds on the hearts of men.

A story of courage, conviction, and the power of free will, Naked Empire pushes the Sword of Truth saga into a battle for the soul of mankind.