Cecil's forces in Zaxon are forced evacuate to Tarba when they are overrun by a sudden attack by Raster's forces as a new war ignites. Duke Raster has plans to rule over the whole of Lodoss. Spark's group arrive in Hiruto and Spark meets with Governor Randal. Spark gets frustrated that he cannot help in the war effort, but Randal tries to teach him about responsibilities. Meanwhile Garrack is still suspicious of Ryna's motivations but she allays his fears. She learns that Garrack is not a mercenary but a noble protecting Spark as he may be king of Flaim one day. When news of the dark elves being spotted reaches Hiruto, the group set out joined by Neese, who claims to follow Spark due to being led by her dark nightmare.