Merrin saved Queen Beau-but peace doesn't last. When a memory elixir breaks, Windley is forced to confront a past he hoped was buried, and a dangerous enemy emerges intent on stealing the power of the Nemophile's Crown. Meanwhile, Rafe's betrayal of a moon goddess leaves him exposed to otherworldly threats-and desperate enough to forge a new pact fast. Surrounded by enemies and half-truths, Merrin searches for the real story behind the Nemophile's Crown and the dark echo stalking her steps. But the closer she gets to the truth, the harder it becomes to tell villain from hero... and protection from possession. Because in a world where gods bargain and magic keeps receipts, love is never the only thing at stake. Tropes: secrets revealed - past catches up - dangerous bargains - shadow-magic escalation - loyalty tested For fans of: The Princess Bride banter × Throne of Glass stakes × Serpent & Dove-style atmospheric slow burn.