Steiner, blacksmith, hero, has taken a hammer to the Empire, freeing the dead and children with withcsign alike from their fiery prison. Now he plans to finish what he started. Kimi, dragon-speaker, princess, must seek her father’s court and win the support of his armies before news of her escape dooms her people. Silverdust, ancient, dead, journeys to the heart of the empire as a prisoner – to meet the Emperor for what he hopes will be the final time. Kjellrun, witch, killer, still reeling from the loss of her uncle when she is ripped from her family, fears this power within her. But she must harness that force – and soon – if she hopes to survive. Scattered by fortune, plagued by danger, Steiner’s crew rise against the dark rule that has cost them so much. The old gods are waking. The dragons are free. May gods help those who bear the sign of the witch.