Corfu in the sixteenth century. Key to Asia. Repository of a magic older than history itself. No wonder the demon Chernobog must possess the island - for with it in his grasp, Chernobog can finally crush Venice and defeat his immortal enemy, the Lion of San Marcos, who thwarted his previous bid for absolute power. Now all hope depends on the derring-do of the small band of heroes who fought against the demon before - and the inner strength of one reluctant young heroine. For the ancient powers of Corfu care nothing for either Chernobog's lust for power, nor the human desire for freedom.

And anyone who would wield the island's primordial magic must pay with a piece of his - or her - soul.