Introduction

It is the year 640 Michaeline Reckoning.

The restored Empire of Anuire, under the protection of Emperor Agelmore Avan Roele, First of His Name, has prospered for half a century. By forging an alliance with King Hrothwulf of the Giantdowns, the Empire has built several fortresses along the Ruide River, to keep the power of the Gorgon in check. The Silver Knights, one of the military orders of the One True Imperial Church of Haelyn, stands vigilant on the battlements, led by their Grandmaster, Lord Regall Tieghan.

But the Gorgon is not the only danger: to the North, the orogs of the Scarlet Barony wage restless war against the Rjuven, while the White Witch plots revenge against King Hrothwulf, who has stolen her daughter to make her his Queen.

The awnsheghlien are becoming bolder, a slithering Shadow is spreading silently across the world of Men. There's a lingering feeling that peace in Anuire will not last long. Rumors of an impending war, a Crusade, are spreading like wildfire.

For half a century, the Empire has kept the Shadow at bay. But today, Anuire and its allies must mourn: the Emperor is dead.