Venice, 1371. As war upends their lives, their families, and their republic, Nico Saltano, ballot boy to Doge Andrea Contarini, and Donato Venturi, a celebrated Black swordsman, fall in love during a clandestine diplomatic mission and run the risk of burning at the stake for their love. When an enemy alliance attacks Venice, their love is tried and tested in a warscape of greed, treachery, loyalty, and heroism. Surviving, sustaining their love, and protecting their republic radically redefines them.