A generation ago, the city of Voortyashtan was the stronghold of the god of war and death, the birthplace of fearsome supernatural sentinels who killed and subjugated millions.

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Now, the city's god is dead. The city itself lies in ruins. And to its new military occupiers, the once-powerful capital is a wasteland of sectarian violence and bloody uprisings.

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So it makes perfect sense that General Turyin Mulaghesh-- foul-mouthed hero of the battle of Bulikov, rumored war criminal, ally of an embattled Prime Minister--has been exiled there to count down the days until she can draw her pension and be forgotten.

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At least, it makes the perfect ‚  cover ‚  story.

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The truth is that the general has been pressed into service one last time, dispatched to investigate a discovery with the potential to change the world--or destroy it.

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The trouble is that this old soldier isn't sure she's still got what it takes to be the hero.