Clan Sabre has attacked Clan Phoenix in the middle of the ceremony where leadership was to have been passed from Ashtur to his daughter Ashen. Tagar, leader of Clan Sabre, had not planned on the Clan Rhino's fierce defense, and soon Tagar is deserted by his fellow invaders, but not before he assassinates Ashtur. Brak shows Ashen a prophesy that was left for her by her father as she takes up the sword of leadership. The prophesy is that the Clan Phoenix shall rise from the ashes to rebuild the Full Cirkle.
Licking his wounds from his failed mission, Tagar seeks allies in his bid to bring down Clan Phoenix, and he recruits Clans Hyena and Vulture to counter the Rhinos, while Ashen rallies the other clans to her side. War is near.