The war between demon ridden Traag and the Solarian Empire dragged on for decades. Solaria emerged victorious - though just barely. Two years later, the nation stands at the brink of chaos, Weeds claim prime farmland and bandits stalk the decaying highways while common folk struggle to get by. Even once wealthy noble clans have become destitute. But some see opportunities amidst this turmoil. Tia Samos is one such opportunist, touring the empire on behalf of her ambitious family, seeking opportunities - and prospective husbands, Three months ago, her last prospect was slaughtered along with most of his subjects in a sacrificial rite. Tia and the other survivors were brought to the imperial capital to testify at the trial of Charles Cortez, the massacres ringleader. The trial is over. Tia cuts deals and courts unruly knights while awaiting the verdict. Yet, she is uneasy, plagued by plots and dark dreams of Charles confederates. And she is not alone. Tia's maid and personal minstrel Rebecca is 'playing the palace' - but there is something wrong with her music. Her former bodyguard Sir Peter Cortez parties with his old comrades in arms - and skirts the edges of a treacherous plot. Her carriage driver Kyle confronts his past - and ponders his future. Apart and together, they find opportunity, intrigue, and peril.