In a realm marred by historical brutality, a toughened war orphan, Rin, defies the odds by passing an Empire-wide exam, earning her a place at Sinegard, the most prestigious military academy. However, Rin's arrival at Sinegard is far from a fairytale, facing prejudice and a tough life that challenges her identity. To survive, she unveils her extraordinary shamanic abilities, drawing upon a legendary but volatile art steeped in psychoactive powers and the patronage of ancient deities. As political conflicts escalate into an imminent Third Poppy War, Rin's newfound powers might just be key to saving her empire, but at what cost to her humanity and the soul of her people? A blend of historical nuance and fantastical elements, 'The Poppy War' is an epic tale of power, war, and the burdens carried for one's homeland.