Vampire king Lucien is betrayed and poisoned by brother Cassian's coup. Aria, a mind-reading angel baby, saves him; he adopts her. Vampires fear angelic power, while Cassian and noble Vivian plot with forbidden serpent curses. Aria uncovers their traps; Lucien defends her through council trials, auction contests, and fake inquisitors. After brutal rebel fights, Aria is recognized as the vampire realm’s legitimate heir.