Chapter 1

Before the ambush at Khudla, Rin battles phantom pain from her amputated right hand and the shared aftershocks of her soul-anchor bond with Kitay. She refuses to train with a sword, fearing weakness, while Kitay reassures her about the plan and remains behind to channel the Phoenix. This mission is Rin’s test from the Monkey Warlord to earn broader command.

As sunset nears, Rin and Kitay eavesdrop on young Mugenese patrolmen longing for home, stirring Rin’s guilt and rage. She suppresses doubt, recalls past atrocities, and signals the attack. Her brigades under Officers Shen and Lin strike from east and north while Rin storms the south alone, unveiling fiery wings to terrify and scatter defenders.

Rin wields newly honed precision—whips, blades, and targeted burns—to blind and immolate opponents swiftly. She compartmentalizes their humanity, drawing on Altan’s brutal lessons about fire and terror. The rout is swift; the defenders flee or die, confirming her tactical edge and the enemy’s inexperience.

Converging on the final holdouts, Rin learns the Mugenese have taken hostages inside a sturdy stone temple with artillery coverage. Concerned about potential gas and casualties, and mindful that her success margin will decide her future command, Rin rejects a risky assault.

After confirming few hostages and evacuating her troops from the kill zone, Rin seals the doors with heat and drives flames through openings. Despite piercing screams, she hardens herself, channels the Phoenix, and burns the temple, choosing decisive victory over mercy to protect her forces and cement her authority.