As King Amalric's army nears Cairo, Emir Saladin confronts him with a small force, releasing Balian to join his side. Karategin cures the poisoned troops of Shirkuh and Yaruki, bringing them to Cairo. Amalric expects an easy victory, but news of Nureddin Zengi's march on Harim forces the Crusaders to withdraw, leaving Shawar trapped as Saladin and Shirkuh advance on the vizier's palace.

The vacant vizier's throne causes turmoil in Egypt, with the Caliph having other plans. Conflict arises over the Crusader spoils between Yaruki and Saladin. Balian is distressed over Giom's death, with William, Balian, and Sibylla seeking clues. Shawar's fate is uncertain as his son Kamil pleads for mercy.

Shirkuh aims to calm Cairo and prevent chaos while seizing the throne, facing potential obstacles.