Thanks to Mahmut, Torqye's main force has avoided a confrontation with the southern Imperial army. The Rhein region is in the hands of Zaganos, and as Torqye gains the advantage, his hands are already on the throat of Balt-Rhein! But a generals' conference portends serious changes for Mahmud's life -- and soon he realizes this isn't a war against the Empire, but a struggle for the future of his own homeland!
