Sequel to: Flame in the mist

After Ōkami is captured in the Jukai forest, Mariko returns to Inako and faces the dangers that have been waiting for her in the Heian Castle. She tricks her brother, Kenshin, and betrothed, Raiden, into thinking she was being held by the Black Clan against her will, playing the part of the dutiful bride-to-be to infiltrate the emperor's ranks and uncover the truth behind the betrayal that almost left her dead. Pretending to be consumed with her upcoming nuptials, Mariko uncovers a political scheme that threatens the very safety of the empire. -- adapted from amazon.com

9-12