Strained alliances. A mercenary turned lord. A vault denied to all but the chosen. Salvatore Oxenheart has reached Miderochi after fleeing the continent of Kovoulek. But with the captivating and foreign cultures come a new set of problems. He must work together with an ally he no longer trusts and convince the leaders to move against his own homeland. But Miderochi's elite all have their own ideas on how to proceed, and how to take advantage of the impending conflict between the continents. The relationships between the Houses of Miderochi will be his next challenge, one that is not so easily quelled with a simple demonstration of strength. The Debutante has made promises, and Kimeno is forced to pick a side. Meanwhile, Salvatore sets out for a new journey with the Immaculate Butler. One that will take him through the heart of Miderochi in all its beauty and danger. Finally, tested and weary, he will stumble up to the doors to the Vault of Tribulation's End.