The Knights of the Black Roses leave 200 hundred strong and return with 6.
The 6 are thought to be dead.

The Conqueror is the 3rd and last book.
Bernard returns from his four years in the Crusades to claim his bride and land he was promised. Only two others knew of the promise and one was dead. Odo Setton chose to deny the knowledge of owing Bernard land or his youngest daughters hand in marriage.

Claire has been promised to another.

Through an unusual amount of events Bernard kidnaps Claire to use as ransom to get the land at least.