Born in 1602, Illyana’s family assisted the Romanovs against their rivals, the Godunovs, for control of the Russian empire.

In 1630, her friend Sophia offered Illyana a choice: become a vampire with her or die. Illyana chose death, but Sophia turned her anyway.

Later, Cytheria revealed that turning the girls was revenge from the Godunovs — who were vampires. The Dakanovas were, unknown to Illyana, a family of vampire hunters steeped in the Shadowdance.

Illyana was later tasked with turning Adriana Dupré. She did as commanded but refused to give Adriana to the Daughters.

Ultimately, Fatale, the new Mistress of the Daughters, decried that Illyana should suffer for the rest of her life for her transgressions against the Daughters. Geisa Barros is assigned to make sure Illyana suffers but never dies.