The war against the Thessid Empire has begun in the Middle Kingdoms, and Artesia has placed her company at the heart of it. Awaiting orders to join the Grand Duke, Artesia skirmishes with a column of the dreaded Dumeghal, warrior-servants of the Isliklids in league with the empire. Despite their victory, Artesia is filled with a sense of unease that permeates the Middle Kingdoms. As the call to join the rest of the fight comes, Artesia struggles with her visions of guilty pasts and dark futures.