A world away and centuries past, nothing in this feudal kingdom is ordinary—especially love. Eiji is a young traveling musician whose skill with the shamisen attracts almost as many would-be consorts as his handsome features do. But his beauty also draws the attention of a ruthless warlord who won't be denied. Unless Eiji gives himself in every way to this man, his life will be forfeit before he's even known what it is to experience true love. Then a small act of kindness to a helpless butterfly changes the course of his destiny. A creature of magic, Hakusa begs the gods for a chance to be joined with Eiji forever, even if it means giving up everything he has ever known. But his choice to become human comes with a cruel price. Hakusa vows to rescue Eiji from the warlord's scheme. But like delicate notes of the shamisen, his unearthly magic is slowly fading away. Just when he needs it most.