Villagers burst into Finn Zale’s home announcing Commander Corwin’s draft: join the rebel army and you’ll be paid, fed, and allowed to pick a wife. Finn, a 16-year-old transmigrated history PhD stuck in the poor village, reads his locked system stats and resents his uselessness. The commander’s speech stirs the crowd; men cheer at promises of silver, food, and wives. After a moment’s hesitation, Finn agrees to enlist and sign up. The episode ends with brides paraded for selection — the ceremony begins as a voice commands, "Kneel!"