In the world of Dearth, refugees Squirg Fallowshins and Jubal Tryx are fleeing their homeland and traveling south under the dying red sun to the city of Serus Arx. Along the road, they encounter odd peddlers and a vicious monster from underground. A fierce battle ensues, and the victors continue on their way, only to be accosted by more monsters, even nastier than the last. Injured and outnumbered, the adventurers retreat to the home of the wizard Zar Narwal, who promptly gives them a mysterious yet lucrative new quest.