For centuries, the nation of Malkala has bought peace with the larger, though fractured, Empire of Chesia through trade subsidies and bribes.

Now, a warlord has united the Empire under his Red Dragon banner and he's not interested in buying from Malkala; he wants to own it.

The Army of Malkala must fight a juggernaut many times its size and face the temptation of gold and lands; a temptation not everyone can resist.

A Griffins & Gunpowder Short Story of Approximately 6,300 words. Suitable as a stand-alone story.