Internal factional conflict within Venetian nobility and guard forces over loyalty, duty, and survival as the Mandragora threat escalates

Giuliano and Marco face the reality of the Brethren's siege following Federico's death and Hieronymous' bid for power. As timber is rushed to reinforce the west gate, Marco reports that …

Hieronymous seizes the Brethren’s violent escalation as an opportunity to turn defense into offense. He halts the slaughter in the throne room and commands his followers to drag Sarah and …