Disguised as a Mongaul soldier, Istavan manages to infiltrate the ranks of Lord Marus' men, in preparation for the next stage of Guin's offensive. While the Sems prepare for the coming battle, Guin goes in search of the Largon to recruit them to his cause. The Sems can only hold out against the Mongaul army for four days; Guin must return before time runs out.