All that stands between Adara and her dream of becoming a Warder agent is Geren's rigorous week-long field trial in neighboring Cruese. Her final test is to covertly follow the royal Cruesean coach. While she struggles to extricate herself from a thicket of thorns, the coach stops. She hears the ringing of steel on steel and looks to see Geren fighting with the Count's personal guard. Has Geren gone mad? Is the battle part of the wild politics of Cruese? Is it a special twist to her final exam?
Back in Eridan, the panicked appearance of Geren's spirit sign in the cavern below the Knife & Cat tavern, alarms the leaders of the Warders. News from their contacts in the local thieves' guild convinces them to send Draham and Toran on a desperate mission. Can they rescue the alliance and their friends, or will they be forced to choose between their duty and friends?