Summary 'Chief accountant' Richard assists Jakob Fugger on their Italian campaign to buy the succession of the ailing pope, starting in Florence even before his death prompts a conclave. Counting on pro-crusade cardinal Sforza they need the support of vice chancellor Borgia, to stop off ruthless conservative rival della Rovere of the Inquisition party, for one buying dodgy ratification of a cardinal appointment 'in pettore'. In Rome the intrigue is merciless, even deadly, but Richard bluntly disappoints Fugger and his minder Eberding, even risks everything to save gypsy harlot Saviya who serves Borgia in bed and as card reader, a pretext for inquisitor Heinrich Institoris to charge her as witch, punishable on the stake. Borgia becomes the last hope after Sforza is disqualified. Richard may get to revenge his mother or loose everything, and Jakob Fugger reveals a family secret.

• Adventure
• Drama
• History