Shadows of the Empire - Steve Perry

Sera may save the world--if it does not kill her first.

For her entire childhood, Sera has only known homelessness, hardship, and hostilities toward her and other magi. Fearing their powers, the empire and its citizens persecute magi without mercy or cause. The magi are, simply, seen as the greatest threat to humanity.

But just south of the imperial capital lies an ancient dragon so deadly, legend says it can tear asunder an entire city in a single night. Soldiers cannot conquer it. Dragon hunters avoid it. Even magi fear it.

Greed and fear, however, are driving powerful figures to hunt the dragon. And in doing so, they may bring about their very end—unless Sera and the other magi can look past centuries of genocide.

Should the lust of those in power awaken this mythical monster, the world's only hope lies in the shadows of the empire.