He never wanted to be a hero. He just wanted to be free.

After a century trapped in a cursed illusion, Aes finally escapes—only to find himself still bound by the magic he hates, and to a girl who once tried to kill him.

The curse ties him to Trea, igniting a dangerous connection neither of them fully understands. But breaking it may cost more than his freedom—it may cost her life. So Aes sets off for Horizon Island, Maine, hoping for answers... and a way out.

Instead, he finds a town poisoned by magic, mages on the brink of death, and monsters threatening to rip through the barrier between worlds.

Aes swore he'd never play the hero. But when the only way forward is through the very magic he wants to escape, he'll have to decide: walk away—or fight for a future neither of them believed they deserved.