The Serpent

In 1975 Bangkok, Dutch diplomat Herman Knippenberg looks into the mysterious disappearance of a young couple who were last seen at the residence of gem dealer Charles Sobhraj.

Marie-Andrée Leclerc abandons her previous life to be with Charles Sobhraj, only to realize the dangerous consequences of her choice. Meanwhile, Herman becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the murders of a Dutch couple.

Dominique Renelleau, a young Frenchman, attempts to flee from the sinister grasp of Charles Sobhraj. Meanwhile, Herman listens to testimonies from Nadine and Rémi, beginning to grasp the full extent of Sobhraj's criminal activities.

Charles faces a dangerous and destructive journey through Nepal, while Nadine assists Herman in obtaining crucial evidence to prompt police action.

Herman intensifies his efforts to pressure the Thai authorities into pursuing the case, while Charles works to finalize his escape strategy, leading to a tense intellectual showdown between the two.

Gautier's escape creates complications that jeopardize Herman's position in diplomacy. Meanwhile, Charles tries to establish himself professionally in France, a country tied to significant personal history.

Charles and Marie-Andrée begin building a new life in Paris, while Herman takes a risky step in his investigation that leads to a significant discovery.

Charles and Marie-Andrée face increasing danger as authorities in India close in on them, while Herman's investigation into Sobhraj continues, extending far beyond the events of this chapter.