Envoys from the distant East, contact with which was lost generations ago, arrive in the western kingdom of Tarvilon. The nephew of the King of Tirlond, Prince Arten, is excited by the proposal of one of the ambassadors to go to the dead country of Zurbestan, once cursed by magicians for the desire for forbidden scientific knowledge. Sixteen-year-old Elina, the daughter of Count Eisendorg, dreams of exploits and glory, is ready to accompany her childhood friend on a dangerous expedition, but considerations of big politics prevent her from doing so. However, neither the prince, nor the young countess, nor her father have any idea about the plans of a certain mysterious organization that has already drawn them into its game...

In this novel there are no Light and Dark, no gods and demons. Only people, each of whom has their own truth...