The old Imperor was dead at last. His popular soldier grandson, known as
Shandie, had succeeded him... Hadn't he? No, he hadn't. The man who sat
the opal throne was not Shandie, but an illusion created by the mad
dwarf, Xinixo. Year after year he had stealthily been enchanting
sorcerers, turning them into loyal minions. Now, wielding their combined
power, he was irresistible. He ruled the Impire, so he ruled the world.
He would continue to rule it for centuries. Anyone who knew the truth or
opposed him in any way, he would destroy or enslave. That especially
included his old enemy, King Rap of Krasnegar. And Shandie, the rightful
Imperor, of course. And all their supporters, their friends, their
families. All of them! First he had to catch them. With his infinite
magic, that ought to be easy. Rap and Shandie had other ideas, but even
they could see that, their cause looked hopeless.