The Zhaohua Dynasty has stood for a hundred years. It appears prosperous, but turbulent currents churn beneath the surface. The Starwatch Pavilion, a branch of the Imperial Astronomical Bureau, once glimpsed Heaven’s secrets and left behind a prophecy: “The phoenix cries in the nine heavens, and the dragon throne will fall.” It foretells that a woman of destiny, carrying the bloodline of the former dynasty, will shake the current imperial power. Like a sword hanging over the dragon throne, this prophecy leaves the emperor unable to eat or sleep in peace.
Meanwhile, the martial world is rife with tangled factions. The Bloodcloaks, an ancient sect with a long history, and the Netherworld Hall, made up of fanatical loyalists to the former dynasty, stand opposed because of their differing ideals. Both are searching for the legendary treasure of the former dynasty, a trove of wealth and power capable of overturning the world.
Yet this grand conflict is quietly converging on one person: Shen Qingge, daughter of the current prime minister, Shen Wenzheng.
