Tensions grow as the Empire continues to try and expand, Emperor Cree pressing on his Lord Commander to take over Frier. His son, Prince Loren Cree IV, begins to show the Crown Prince Mutid who's really in charge. At the same time, Mutid, now the King of Harub, has plans of his own, starting with freeing his mother. And once he does, he finds that her advice may take him to new heights and unchain him from the Empire's bounds.

The Josin to the South of Harub are confused by the intrusion of their lands. They still consider the Harubians allies, members of the Human Alliance along with them. Confusion reigns as they try to better understand what next steps they must take, do they fight their former allies or join with the Empire that they pushed aside?

Far off in the East, Gunther receives a message from the Emperor, an upsetting one that drives him to anger. Only through his trusted Cleric, Lucius, he is able to think clearly and begins to march North to take over Frier. He is driven by the Cleric's visions, excited at the thought of supplanting the Emperor. But first, he needs the snake like Governor Slarkin to fall in line...