The saga of 1897 continues as the gypsy curse begins, with unforeseen consequences for all involved. As a result, a gruesome and powerful object is employed to end the curse and avert further tragedy. Throughout, fortunes change, identities are lost, and portraits are imbued with curious powers. The evil Count Petofi, in an attempt to escape his own fate with the gypsies, plans to travel to the future Collinwood by means of the I-Ching, bringing misery to those who stand in his way. Will Barnabas succeed in altering events to save the future family, or is his sojourn to the past a futile endeavor?