Thessalys life is laid out before her, a sparkling path toward the goals any young woman of Albion should aspire to. Her own magic is strong, shes a gifted duellist mastering the enchantments of illusion work. Now shes betrothed to the shining son of one of the greatest families in the country. All she has to do is tread the steps of the proper dance.

Vitus has just returned from a grand tour, learning all he can about stones and mines to cap off his apprenticeship as a talisman maker. Now its time to establish himself, build his business, and craft his own future.

When Thessaly and Vitus meet at a costume ball, theres an immediate spark between them. Thessalys marriage agreements specifically permit that, so long as shes discreet. Certainly, theres no barrier to a friendship or magical collaboration. Vitus, for his part, is charmed by her intelligence, creativity, and eye for crafting magic.

Theyve barely begun to get to know each other　or figure out how to handle their growing mutual interest properly　when Thessalys world collapses. The sudden change in her life throws everything shed expected into chaos. Vitus has no idea how to help, not without risking his future as well.