Micah Gradier would rather fight a killer than go to the ball. As a full-fledged replacement for the princess. Mika must endure flattering ladies, ardent suitors and attempted murder. But she finds it hardest to get along with Princess Jessamyn, especially when the princess refuses to end the game with the impostor and take the crown. When a stranger appears in Crystal Harbor with Talents and incurable madness, Mika vows to find an old enemy and put an end to his schemes. But she and Jessamine still share a face, even as their goals differ, and their friendship is in jeopardy. Mika wants to serve the empire, but the quest gets more complicated—and may require betrayal. Two missions. One person. The Empire is on the brink of war.