On the threshold of coming of age, a white flame awakened in the blood of Vesta shi Oner - echoes of the ancient magic of her people. A few barely smoldering sparks, but this was enough to change Vesta’s fate forever. And many will say that for the better: studying at a closed university for the elite, the groom is the crown prince of the Sky Castle, a comfortable life in luxury and prosperity... And also a crowd of noble maidens, each of whom hates Vesta and dreams of taking her place. And it doesn’t matter that Lady Shi Oner is not seduced by the role of a silent adornment of the future king. How can you learn to live in a golden cage if you cannot forget the bittersweet taste of freedom? How to win the respect of future subjects if you have too tanned skin and rough hands that have held things heavier than hairpins, fans and a tape recorder? Make a bet with the main viper of the Sky Castle? Live for six months in the world of ordinary people and non-humans without the support of your fiancé and parents? It’s not a big deal if you grew up at the Roots of Andaunna and know the rule of the three “don’ts”: don’t quarrel with theists, don’t stand in the way of messengers and don’t mess with black magicians. But when there are only two months left before the cherished victory, everything can go awry. Especially if your neighbor, a warlock, falls on your head, and with him - demons, the underworld of Andaunna and the investigation of a bloody murder that will change both Vesta and everyone who is dear to her.