Have you met Lucky? From the coal mines in the Herington Mountains to the oasis cities of the Belisarius Dessert, this is how everyone repeats the rumour. The content might differ, but the first words are always the same.

Few can claim they have and they are reluctant to speak. The man in question is the demon which haunts their restless nights. Only those desperate enough are willing to seek him and his services. That's exactly what Alexis is, desperate and willing to sell her soul for someone to save her from the mess she's gotten herself in. Having the drawings of a steam engine that does not require coal is dangerous and detrimental to her health. Going to the authorities is out of the question because there are people with enough reach and power that would prefer to see her and her secret buried.