By Duty Bound

As the Wolf Clan’s civil war continues, those loyal to the Hayashi Family must face new trials. The plan to contain their adversaries—the Hitomi Family—in Kyoudai Pass is working; however, new threats from unexpected quarters have put them in a precarious position, and their foes have not been idle.

Shiro, a dishonored rōnin leading an ill-equipped conscript unit behind enemy lines, faces the possibility that his force may be incapable of fighting thanks to a clever Hitomi trap. Worse, internal divisions have begun to emerge, compounding the damage. Now he must find a way to rescue those under his command while preserving their will to fight.

Hayashi Seiko’s situation is no less precarious. Commanded by her brother—the clan’s rightful daimyo—to inform Shiro of Oota Kin’s betrayal, she must face an uncaring wilderness with only the aid of her new instructor…but the wilds may not be the greatest danger she faces. Can she meet her brother’s expectations? Or her own?