The Imperial and Great Houses rule with a bloated and arrogant fist. They sit with their Wizards and Artes, content to enjoy their long, leisurely lives. The parties are spectacular, the wine is splendid, and the grudges are deep. Under their rule, the human spirit wanes, and exploration and innovation are nearly extinct.  Here enters Alfred Vonam, Don of the Merry Merchant Company. A graduate of Barralet, financier, lawyer, Artisan Pistoleer, and heir apparent of Disurnis Barony, he is a rising star in society. But he harbors a secret: He is also a Wizard, unaligned with any of the Great Houses—a crime punishable by death.  With his bondermen and hidden Arte, Alfie sets his plans in motion to transform society from a dull silver to a glittery gold. For him, the ends always justify the means.  But first, he needs to cut a drug deal.  Next chapter: Feb 14th