In the dark reality of the 41st millennium, war is eternal and survival is but a fleeting hope. Cadet-Commissioner Elara Vorenn is new to her post, a young officer newly forged under the relentless discipline of the Schola Progenium, and thrown into the heart of a relentless campaign against the xenos. Surrounded by battle-hardened soldiers who question her abilities, and faced with the ruthless realities of war, the young woman must prove herself worthy of the Emperor's trust, while the horrors of war take their toll on her adolescent mind. Will Elara learn to handle the Emperor's fire, or will she be consumed by it? Perfect for fans of action, and the relentless fight against heretics, 'Ashes in the mud' delves into the price of service and the inner strength required to lead a universe at perpetual war.