In a court of decadence and intrigue, only Maya's enchantments hold in check the snow-white creatures they keep in a menagerie to amuse themselves. But when Lady Tatiana arrives, and all must outdo themselves to win her support for the king, Lord Dariko is certain that she can hold in check a gryphon as well, and will hear no warnings of danger. Her most careful watch and her most powerful spells might not save them -- but nothing else will.