Malthus Kierin always dreamed of adventuring, of making his mark upon the world of Kalan. After he earns his robe and staff, rewards for passing the tests required to become a wizard, the door to his dreams stands open.

But a nightmare awaits him on the other side, a black-hearted wizard who, along with his vile undead minions, systematically assassinates all of Kalan's heroes, and then hunts Malthus down.

Malthus and his small band of companions flee on a seemingly hopeless quest for aid. Who now will become heroes? Or will Kalan fall in an age of darkness?