With Mohor dead, Jara's family is shattered. She and Vio are taken as prisoners to Arad, trapped under Orban's watch. Saliné remains in Severin, a pawn in Aron's grip. Meanwhile, Dochia is sent deep into the heart of the Serpentist Sect - her return to Frankis uncertain. As war looms, the Circle and the Wanderers rally powerful allies, enlisting the Dukes of Peyris and Tolosa to hunt down Codrin. But Codrin has found refuge in Poenari, a sanctuary soon to become a battlefield. Armies from every corner of Frankis march upon its walls, each vying for dominance. When the siege begins, alliances will fracture, loyalties will be tested, and in the end, chaos may be the only victor.