The Empire is a powerful military nation on a continent that looks much like early 20th century Europe. But in this world, magic is real. The Empire is involved in a war against the Entente Alliance, and fighting a poorly executed delaying action in the northern theater. Second Lieutenant Tanya Degurechaff leads a small platoon of mages. But there's something unusual about this lieutenant... she's only nine years old!

Tanya just barely manages to restrain herself from disobeying her superior officers and attacking the Republic remanents. But the Republic forces have escaped overseas, and vowed to fight to the bitter end. The Empire has been victorious, but in its victory it has terrified the rest of the world and spurred them to action. Is true victory possible at all?