With most loose ends tidied up, Provine Sael leads her little band into direct service to the Empire. The Third North War is in its second campaign season, and both sides are determined to find victory; Grog and Burk are equally determined to take part in a major battle. Service to the Imperial forces is not as good as a large battle, but it promises more than a little violence and hard living for the small, disparate group. On a side note, the question of Rose possibly being the Seed of Destiny has not been forgotten..Grog and Burk must face continuing change in their lives as they enter their second year of freedom, and continue to shoulder the responsibility of upholding the good name of their barracks, and meeting Master Horne's expectations. Violence, leadership, the proper size of fish, and poor utilization of water are just some of the challenges they must overcome.