Behind him is the academy. Ahead is practice in squads of the “green patrols.” Jim De’Oldman heads for the Far Ranges of the Wall. But there are loyal friends and a commander nearby—so together they can handle any problem. The Dark Empire is on the brink of war with the state of Firiat. In the Light Empire lands near the Wall are dying, and from the northern borders a new, unseen affliction breaks through. The barrier no longer saves from the horrors of darkness—evil creeps over the land. Is there, in such a world, a right to love for a young girl? Will she be happy?