The year is 3034. All power has reverted to steam. Airships darken the sky. Europe crumbles under war. In imperial Vienna, war has been a distant whisper--heard but not seen, until terror drops from the sky, bringing bloodshed across Austria. Now, beloved granddaughter of the emperor, Thea Lang, and her elder brother must flee to the safety of Belarus. Suddenly a refugee, all she longs for is to return home to her city, her people, and the man who raised her. That is, until "home" shifts in the reflection of a pair of black eyes and a voice like midnight. Captain Irek Surov fights for Russia and the countries who need its aid. His entire life has marched in service and protection 'tll a young woman with the fervor and beauty of Russian folklore sirens brings his heart to a halt. Between them, there can be no future. Their lives lie in opposite directions and war has no mercy for lovers. Yet, between their two hearts an indelible cord has been woven. Perhaps even the flames of battle cannot burn it away.