This is the second prequel novella describing events prior to the Herbia series of books. A ranger has just suffered the loss of his older companion and must escape with his body. He meets two people that will transform his fortunes, but he must journey with them into the Empire of Ivy. The Empire continues to oppress the Coastals, a region of people ruled by disunited lords. He must help lead them to hold off the insurgent Ivy-soldiers and redeem himself back in his home of Th'enn. To do this he must put his life and reputation on the line.