It is a long-standing tradition to send the heirs of famous families to distant fortresses for two years. Service in a quiet garrison is boring... But an ancient spell has awakened, black sands are advancing, and the lives of the soldiers entrusted to them depend on the princes. Meanwhile, there is turmoil in the capital, and soon an internecine war will engulf the kingdom. Friends will become enemies, enemies will become allies. Artemy Thorn from the clan of the silver Deer, Emitriy Din from the clan of the golden Eagle and Mark Krokh from the clan of the golden Fox will have to make their choice.