On a visit to Gwynn Place, a life-changing surprise is waiting ¿The winds of change are blowing for Lady Claire's family-not only is Claire a big sister again with the arrival of little Caroline, but eight-year-old Nicholas is now preparing to go to Eton, too. In an effort to make up for his less than heroic conduct at Holly Cottage, his tutor Alden Dean offers to take him up and keep him safe for the journey. But Nicholas never reaches Eton, and Alden Dean never returns. For old enemies have not forgotten old slights, and choose their moment to strike. Their aim: To force Claire and Andrew to give up the Helios Membrane, which can change a country's fortunes forever. But the Lady of Devices is not the only one in the family with wits and courage. Are they enough to tip the dangerous balance between power and love?