The Orloj of London

The Orloj of London is the fourth volume in a saga that follows six young wizards-often called the Harlequins-on a quest to master moral virtues and magical prowess in major European cities. Previous books covered Prague, Venice, and Paris; London is the culminating challenge in which the protagonists must face illusions linked to their own internal flaws. Although the city has no single famous astronomical clock, the story reveals a "hidden Orloj" bound to Big Ben and to illusions scattered throughout the metropolis.

Where previous volumes established the heroes as Apprentice Wizards, Young Wizards, and finally Master Wizards, The Orloj of London revolves around their attempt to ascend beyond Master Wizardry into the rank of Orloj Wizard. To achieve this, they must confront illusions that test six main virtues:

Generosity (vs. Indifference/Greed)Kindness (vs. Callousness/Grudges)Perseverance (vs. Sloth/Giving Up)Humility (vs. Pride/Arrogance)Loyalty (vs. Betrayal/Broken Trust)Tenacity (vs. Resignation/Hopelessness)A recurring antagonist, the Dark Goblin, attempts at every turn to weaponize their self-doubt and moral lapses through illusions. Aiding the Harlequins are a circle of mentor-figures who appear through magical bookstores and ephemeral cameos, each teaching a virtue or warning them about its opposing flaw.