Welkin is promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and assigned as commander of Squad 7 with Alicia as his Sergeant and second in command, much to her dismay. They encounter Faldio Landzaat, an old college friend of Welkin's who has been appointed commander of Squad 1. Welkin introduces himself to Squad 7 but his new subordinates treat him with disdain as they believe, correctly, that he is naive and inexperienced. Squad 7 sets off for Vasel Bridge, which connects the main road to the capital city of Randgriz, and is under Imperials control...