Lucien Crane doesn't know anyone like Stephen. This resourceful magician, justiciar with a daring character is pure charm! Only to him could the count entrust the innermost secret about the magic that flows in his veins. However, suddenly his elusive friend disappears. At this moment, out of the blue, an old acquaintance of Crane’s appears and threatens to expose him. Crane already regrets that he did not leave hated England in time. Stephen Day has his own troubles. While investigating an infestation of giant killer rats in London, he discovers a previously unusual surge of magpie magic within himself. New talents give rise to unwanted rumors: Stephen is now suspected of becoming a dark sorcerer. Because of his friendship with Lucien, the magician can lose everything - his job, friends, position in society. But the matter has not yet been completed. The evil does not subside, and someone will have to take a risk...