Merlin inspires the seafaring Charisians to build an industrial economy, an advanced fleet of ships of the line and a nascent scientific establishment. He bonds deeply with the Ahrmahks, who govern with the support of an cadre of brilliant, noble lieutenants and an elected parliament, while evading questions about his true nature. The church, based in the "holy city" of Zion, which takes months to reach by sea from Charis, stews in suspicion and jealousy. Though repeat efforts to undermine Haarahld and uncover his "heresy" are for naught, the Group of Four eventually orders every naval power of Safehold to attack Charis anyway.