Japanese mythology comes to life in this "magically seductive" fantasy series debut of an orphan with mysterious power-and an empire descending into war (Kirkus Reviews).A future lord is dispossessed of his birthright by a scheming uncle. Left for dead, he finds a new path thanks to a mountain sorcerer-and a mask imbued with the spirit of a great stag. Meanwhile, a dying emperor makes a desperate decree to stop his rival sons from instigating a costly war. But his meddling will only lead to more mistrust, betrayal, and violence.As destiny weaves its rich tapestry, a compelling drama plays out against a background of wild forests, elegant castles, hidden temples, and savage battlefields. This is the medieval Japan of Lian Hearn’s imagination, where animal spirits clash with warriors and children navigate a landscape as serene as it is deadly.