How do you refuse a basilisk and not make an enemy of yourself? It’s not an easy task, because everyone in the empire knows: they are dangerous and vindictive. My grandmother, behind my back, arranged a betrothal with Vailes Asher. He is a powerful mage and a enviable groom. Only I have other plans—so there won’t be a wedding! All I need is to show the yellow-eyed snake that I’m not worthy of such a “high honor.”