In November 1145, Hugh Beringar receives the list from Robert, Earl of Leicester of the thirty men caught in the change of sides by the younger son of Robert of Gloucsester. Olivier de Bretagne has been sought to no avail, friend to Hugh and secret son to Cadfael. The two factions will meet for a peace conference at Coventry. Earl Robert asks Hugh to attend. Cadfael tells Abbot Radulfus that he feels it is his duty to rescue his son Olivier, at the risk of breaking his vows. Radulfus says to accompany Hugh to Coventry. Beyond that, Cadfael is on his own.