The real Salamander warns that a dormant volcano range in Hungary is about to explode. Denes does not believe this is possible and resists the calls to send pre-emptive relief. By now, Jamie, Victoria, and Astrid have reached the Central European Zone. Jamie tries to infiltrate Salamander's retinue, while Astrid contacts Denes for a meeting. Jamie manages to get himself promoted to Salamander's personal staff by preventing a bogus attempt on the Leader's life, and also ensures Victoria is given a position as assistant to Salamander's personal chef. When Astrid meets Denes, she tells him of the two spies who have entered the Leader's staff.