The war between Chaos and Order begins! As sides are drawn, Jared Stevens seeks an explanation for his newfound powers with the help of his best friend, Arnold Burnsteel. However, when Arnold lacks the answers he seeks, Jared sets off alone and finds himself confronted by a malcontent Sentinel, who makes no effort to hide his disapproval of the new mantle-bearer and warns him of the part he is to play in the upcoming war -- whether he likes it or not.

Left with Sentinel's warning echoing in his mind, Jared makes it home just as a newly Chaos-possessed Sentinel attacks him in a fury to take the artifacts by force.