Ceilsea Brijas is the most renown sculptor in the Kingdom of Sumanar. She is also the most unhappy. She was patronized by the King of Sumanar at a young age and knows nothing of life but her magic-obsessed family and life in the capital. Bouncing between being belittled for not being born with ‘silent song’ and being revered for her unrivaled talent, her life has been privileged but not easy. Now she wants nothing more than to escape the yoke of her responsibilities. The upcoming Champion’s Tournament seems like the perfect distraction to cover up her disappearance.

Then she meets Shaelis Child, a mysterious and talented musician, adept at dismantling the magic of wizards with both symphonies and simple whistles. Shaelis enters the tournament, despite the prevailing opinion that a magicless musician, often called a wayzard, has no chance at winning. They want the title of Champion of Sumanar, not for the glory or the reward, but because becoming Hero of the Empire will give them a chance to escape their past.

The two young artists share a lot in common, including the ability to feel the invisible melodic magics. They also share the opinion that no one will ever let either of them be with their valuable talents. So they hatch a plan to get what they both want. Freedom.

With Ceilsea’s social savvy and connections in Sumanar and Shaelis’ swift sword and unmatched abilities to dispel spells with songs, the two work together to help Shaelis succeed in the tournament, and eventually, maybe, become the one and only Hero of the Empire.

Cover art: Luisa Galstyan