Lin Sukai has won her first victory as Emperor, but the future of the Phoenix Empire hangs in the balance – and Lin is dangerously short of allies. Yet hopes lies in history. Legend tells of seven mythic swords, forged in centuries past. If Lin can find them before her enemies do, she may yet be able to turn the tide. If she fails, the Sukai dynasty – and the entire empire – will fall. "A grand, ingenious, and sweeping tale of power, magic, and heart."  –Tasha Suri, author of "Epic fantasy at its most human and heartfelt. Inventive, adventurous, and wonderfully written."  –Alix E. Harrow, author of