Algirta is known as the Kingless Land. Once prosperous and peaceful, it has fallen into lawlessness, studded with feuding baronies engaged in a constant state of war...but the land is kingless no more. The legendary Sleeping King has been reawakened by the efforts of the valiant Band of Four:

• Hawkril, a bold and brave warrior gifted with great strength and fortitude
• Craer, the crafty and clever thief
• Sarasper, the learned and wise healer
• Lady Embra Silvertree, the mystical Lady of the Jewels, a powerful sorceress

With the aid of the Dwaerindim Stones, the King's curse has been lifted...but it will take more than the Dwaerindim to restore him to the long vacant throne of the land. Ambitious and devious barons are ready to challenge him for the throne, while dark, inhuman forces wait for the chance to bring Aglirta under its evil shadow. The Band of Four must quest for a powerful secret that will restore the kingdom to its former glory.

"Best known as the creator of Forgotten Realms, the Dungeons & Dragons-based heroic fantasy series, Greenwood continues to give his audience exactly what they want...."—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (March 26, 2001)