The narrative centers on a group of nobles and scientists who stage an experimental demonstration of a controversial volitional theory that purports to link belief, trance-mediated communications, and targeted violence. A female scientist navigates social pressure while a hypnotized sensitive channels alleged messages from a discarnate assassin, and a ceremonial assassination attempt triggers unexpected psychic and political consequences. The story examines how doctrines about agency and honor can make lethal acts socially sanctioned and how experiments with human minds can backfire.