Nearly dying at the end of what was to become the greatest scam of the Noble Channels, Locke and Jean went north in a feverish search for an antidote to the poison that Archon Tal-Verrara had given them. And when both the remaining money and hopes for success came to an end, help came from the most unexpected side - from the powerful civilian magicians of Karten. Archdonna Patience promises to cure Locke - but on the condition that the Noble Canali will act in the uncharacteristic role of political strategists. Moreover, they will have to “play” in the Carten elections against Sabetha, their former battle friend and the main love of Locke’s life, who disappeared for five years...