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Summary
Following civil war, one empire grapples with the devastating fallout.

Conscience heavy from having laid waste to the northern lands while conquering his rival, Peasant General Guarding Bear battles his urge to usurp the tyrannical emperor’s throne. But the general’s expelled rival continues to play games — seeking to avenge his name and reclaim the Northern Imperial Sword.

With his reign now threatened by the general’s victory and no progeny to his name, the Emperor plots to conceive an heir by stealth. Luring the General to the castle by poisoning his daughter, the Emperor requests he negotiate a settlement with the neighboring king to restore peace. In a world where men work only to serve their interests, the general must decide where his loyalties lie.