After discovering the library of Menthok-Sikh, the friends find that there is little to be learned in their endeavour, and instead are faced with the remnants of the tower of magic. They must learn the truth about the illusive Evan Whitestiller, who tries to set up shop in the Eastern Kingdom, while the soldiers of the cross remain a menace in the realm. Trouble for the empire ensues as Rimyar tries to establish himself as the freedom fighter of the desert people. Meanwhile, black armoured troops land in numbers at the coast to gain the border region as the dangerous quest for the Claws of the Earth continues.