Grimbolt --- as a result of a miscast spell --- has the body of a bear with human, but furry, hands and feet. He has no memory of his identity and past. With his companions, Alsenius, a high-level warrior, and Njal, an Illusionist, he seeks his identity among the Northwestern kingdoms. Opposed by the Priestesses of the Pythoness they explore and serve.

Young Hanno, a Paladin sworn to uphold justice and honor, must transport the sword Biophontes, which - once drawn - must drain the blood from a victim before it can be sheathed, to a Weapons Master to be reforged. The only henchmen available for the quest are four thieves: Shaphel, a burly bastard fighter/illusionist/thief, Tillyard, a halfling druid/thief, Verminius, an adolescent thief-genius, and Chip, a sailor and amateur thief. They must avoid the priestesses of the Pythoness and overcome the hazards of Pigborn hordes, hostile barbarians, ancient enchanted forests, and booted nobility.

Ambloq, (a Clerical klutz, ) with Eldon, (a Starborn Warrior, ) Senta, (a Ranger, ) Krimhild (a Karate expert, ) and Njal (a mischievous Illusionist, ) and Glitchby (a slightly insane Wizard) help Prince Vortigern to claim his throne, unseat the Emperor Cestus, and rescue their lascivious boss from the clutches of the Priestesses of the Pythoness. They face sea battles, miscast spells, enslavement in the silver mines, and bureaucratic chicanery. The path of true love confronts Starborn bigotry, secretarial espionage, Prince David