As the storm passes, Roland's parents slip out of their roundhouse to attend a council session, and he finds himself curious.

Taryn flees the Alerian mountains but cannot outrun the coming storm.

Roland returns to his clan village and is sent to finish a task in the tannery just before the stormwall arrives.

Roland watches his clan slaughter the trespassing outsiders and feels conflicted by it. He then confronts Taryn as she returns to the scene.

Taryn's company has been discovered and their operation in the mountains hits a snag.

Taryn's company of mercenaries are departing the Alerian mountains with their stolen heart stone. Time nor the locals are on their side. 

Prologue - General Avion's Journal