In a world where the use of magic in warfare has been outlawed, Zaidi has carved out a niche for herself using her powers to heal wounded soldiers. Her special dispensation comes at the cost of an ironclad agreement: she will tend to all sides equally, no matter her personal feelings on the ongoing war.

When the legendary heron prince -- known by one side as a savior-saint and by the other as a murderer -- is brought to Zaidi for treatment, it tests every oath she's ever made. Those closest to her all have their opinions about what she ought to do. Some believe she should let him die, some that she must do everything within her power to save him, and some that she should not see to him at all.

Zaidi has her own reasons for wishing to see the prince dead. The Heron Prince is waging war against her own people, and they are losing. His passing could change the tide of the war, and satisfy her desire for personal vengeance as well. Placed in a position where she has every reason to break her oaths, Zaidi must weigh the worth of a life against all that life represents. In doing so, she will shape the course of history.

A morally charged fantasy tale of war, healing, and impossible choices, this story asks what neutrality truly costs when compassion itself becomes an act of defiance. As Zaidi stands between oath and vengeance, life and consequence, the line between healer and weapon begins to blur. Tense, intimate, and ethically fraught, this story will captivate readers who love character-driven fantasy, wartime dilemmas, and the devastating power of a single decision.