The Wall of Storms [Paperback]

In the much-anticipated sequel to the “magnificent fantasy epic” (NPR)Grace of Kings, Emperor Kuni Garu is faced with the invasion of an invincible army in his kingdom and must quickly find a way to defeat the intruders.

Kuni Garu, now known as Emperor Ragin, runs the archipelago kingdom of Dara, but struggles to maintain progress while serving the demands of the people and his vision. Then an unexpected invading force from the Lyucu empire in the far distant west comes to the shores of Dara—and chaos results.

But Emperor Kuni cannot go and lead his kingdom against the threat himself with his recently healed empire fraying at the seams, so he sends the only people he trusts to be Dara’s savvy and cunning hopes against the invincible invaders: his children, now grown and ready to make their mark on history.The Wall of Storms

CHAPTER ONE

TRUANTS

PAN: THE SECOND MONTH IN THE SIXTH YEAR OF THE REIGN OF FOUR PLACID SEAS.

Masters and mistresses, lend me your ears.

Let my words sketch for you scenes of faith and courage.

Dukes, generals, ministers, and maids, everyone parades through this ethereal stage.

What is the love of a princess? What are a king’s fears?

If you loosen my tongue with drink and enliven my heart with coin, all will be revealed in due course of time. . . .

The sky was overcast, and the cold wind whipped a few scattered snowflakes through the air. Carriages and pedestrians in thick coats and fur-lined hats hurried through the wide avenues of Pan, the Harmonious City, seeking the warmth of home.

Or the comfort of a homely pub like the Three-Legged Jug.

“Kira, isn’t it your turn to buy the drinks this time? Everyone knows your husband turns every copper over to you.”

“Look who’s talkinl³*