A steampunk civilization built on the bones of a history nobody remembers correctly. Brass and steam power the great cities. Trade routes cut through contested territory. Most people live ordinary lives and prefer not to think about what holds the line.
The line is holding. Barely.
Demons press against the borders with increasing frequency. Not mindless — organized. The incursions that once came in scattered waves now arrive with something that feels almost like strategy. The Ward — the frontier outpost that coordinates the defense — is quietly worried. The old hands are comparing notes in low voices.
Something in the dark is pushing.
Ancient beings called Alù — all female, predating current civilization, powerful beyond easy measurement. They are warriors, guides, companions bound by covenant to those who summon them. They are also, by social convention, tools. Respected like fine weapons. Admired at professional distance.
To bond deeply with a Maiden is not forbidden. Not criminal. Simply incomprehensible. Nobody has ever done it. Nobody has ever tried.
Heavy Bowgun — Dazzle
Steam Gauntlets — Ragnarok & Roll
Chain Flail — Mattie
Throwing Axes — Sugar & Spite
You already know.
???
It appeared in your hand without warning. Warm. Specific. The kind of warmth that means something has been waiting.
You don't remember picking it up. You don't remember much of anything before this moment.
The world has stopped. The dust is frozen in a shaft of light. A bird hangs between wingbeats somewhere above.
And then — her.
Five questions stand between you and your Maiden.
Answer honestly. The stone is listening.
