Kin, Anisa, Gibson, and Master Long Tooth head for the Imperials. On the way, they divert to one of the supply depots to gather some food and equipment. There they encounter two thugs and are unable to get much information out of them save the size of a rebel army that heads to Viper's hold … ten-thousand. After more heavy riding through a horrible storm, they locate the Imperial army and are reunited with an old ally, Dasha. After some discussion, they are taken on board the Dreadnaught to give whatever information they have to General Diamondback. What awaits Kin there … changes the course of her life … perhaps for forever.