I'm not really into the idea of absorbing theories but that did give me my current idea, which for the sake of the story, won't be revealed here. I'm going to get to work on writing things up, and you should expect to see a CS here some time this weekend. Here's what information I can give you now, though.
Gaius Sextus has only just ascended to the position of First Lord of Alera. Shortly after this event, an island was discovered about two weeks' voyage of the southern coast. A small group of Cursors has been chosen to explore this island, ascertain the temperament of any locals, and generally collect as much information as possible. The cursors involved were chosen specifically for the strength of their furycraft, each controlling at least two furies of great strength.