Derfel finds Nimue inside the Isle of the Dead; guilt ridden by the deal he's been forced to make with the Saxons, Arthur vows to fight to save Britain.
Gorfydd allies with the Saxons and declares war; Arthur admits he exiled Nimue to the Isle of the Dead.
Arthur believes that Bedwin will be able to negotiate peace with Gorfydd; however, when Morgan and Derfel arrive in Powys, they discover a horrific site.
Arthur and Guinevere meet secretly before Arthur and Ceinwyn are to be married.
Arthur and the tribe kings enter peace talks. Arthur meets Guinevere, Ceinwyn's lady-in-waiting, while traveling.
Derfel feels uncomfortable about the attack on the mine – which Owain is keeping a secret. Nimue is discovered by Merlin who helps heal her. Tristan arrives demanding retribution but Owain denies his guilt.
Nimue returns to Avalon, where she is found by Merlin. Derfel and Owain travel to collect taxes from King Cadwys. Gundleus returns to Caer Cadarn.