It is a time of trials for the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth. Besieged by enemies on all sides, their once mighty forces are struggling to survive - as is their leader... Anson Marik is at his wit's end. His Lyran enemies - aided by the warriors of Clan Wolf - are pressing on the borders of the Commonwealth. His chief tactician has resigned in the midst of the chaos. And his abilities as a leader are failing him. He finds himself unable to summon the legendary rage that brings focus to his mind, and the loss couldn't have happened at a worse time. For his enemies are already on the move, taking the Commonwealth planet by planet, forcing Marik to pull his forces back in a bravely fought running retreat. And if Marik cannot gather his strength to stop the invasion, his people will be doomed.