the start of the novel, the author introduces Michel as he travels through the picturesque Sicilian landscape toward Catane, reflecting on his past and the challenges that await him. He is motivated by a desire to reunite with his father, Pier-Angelo, and his sister, Mila, while navigating the tensions tied to their familial history and the political turmoil surrounding the ruling aristocracy. Michel's arrival at Catane coincides with the presence of the powerful Cardinal Ieronimo, which adds a layer of intrigue as Michel grapples with his own identity and the expectations tied to his lineage. The narrative sets the stage for unfolding conflicts and the interplay of personal and societal pressures that will shape Michel's journey. (This is an automatically generated summary.)