Field Marshal Tamas, who was considered dead on a long campaign, returns to his homeland and learns about the catastrophe that has broken out. For the first time in history, the capital of the Republic of Adro fell to the invaders, the army, deprived of control, rebels and decays, and allies are now indistinguishable from enemies. Meanwhile, in the distant mountains, a detachment of traitors pursues the gunpowder mage Taniel and his companion, the mute sorceress Ka-Poel. She is holding captive the god Kresimir, Adro's most dangerous enemy, and if this woman is not protected, the republic will have no chance of salvation.