Tei is feared across the frozen battlefields as the deadliest warrior and monster hunter of the northern kingdom of Leracal. To seal an alliance with the southern realm of Arnata, he volunteers himself as the hostage of a political marriage, trading his blade for the role of a bride. In Arnata he expects hostility and meets instead the steady gaze of Shuraka, the young crown prince who must survive an uprising to claim the throne. Moved by his betrothed's quiet integrity, Tei vows to protect him.