The Second Empire

Winter lies cold and dark upon the world. The Ramusian Church is steadily extending its power over Normannia, its might beginning to rival that of the long-vanished Fimbrian Empire. But even in the ranks of the Church hierarchy, some are beginning to doubt the morality of their cause.

In the east, the last Torunnan army stands at bay before the walls of its capital. In the west, King Abeleyn strives to maintain control of an unruly and ravaged kingdom. And in the harbour of old Abrusio, the Gabrian Osprey lies docked at last, home from her long voyaging.

Only a handful of shocked survivors remain of the proud expedition which set sail almost a year before, but they are not alone; something has come home with them from the uttermost west.