This chapter opens with a flashback to the time when the kingdom of eosorang was a tributary of the neighboring kingdom of Norterang. The flashback shows that the kingdom has been steadily building up its military strength and is now threatening to attack the kingdom. Alex is worried that the attack will lead to a war between the two kingdoms. He is also worried about the fate of Darcy and Harry, who are both rumored to be in love with Sophia.