The novel begins with Jorg Ancrath surveying the settlement of Mabberton, which he and his so-called Brothers have just plundered and burned. When Rike, one of the most dangerous Brothers, complains about the lack of loot, Jorg placates him by reminding him that they have farmers’ daughters to rape. At the chapter’s end, the reader discovers that Jorg is only 13 and that he possesses great ambition, intending to be king by the time he is 15.

Jorg and his bandits depart Mabberton after setting fire to it. Brother Gemt reproves Jorg for firing the village since “the Baron’s men will see that smoke from ten miles” (6). Jorg fantasizes about stabbing Gemt in the neck.

Jorg gathers the men around him and asks if they know where the group is headed. They are going to Wennith, on the Horse Coast, and Jorg tells them that they will need to take a road called the Lichway to get there in time for the good plunder. Jorg argues that, since the Baron will know their location and their destination, the Baron will also know they are taking the Lichway and will not follow. Jorg then stabs Gemt in the neck