The Sphere of Maalfas is an artifact of unprecedented power, capable of stopping armies and devastating cities. It once belonged to the Alvis, the mysterious underground inhabitants of the Ceren Empire, but after the Battle of Froburg it fell into the hands of the emperor. The former inquisitor, scientist-magician Ludwig von Vierhof, is entrusted with unraveling the secret of the magical talisman and learning to control its power “solely for the good of the Empire.” But is it possible to gain a lot of knowledge without paying for it with many sorrows, to curse a demon and not be in his power? From the first steps, the road, full of dangers and disappointments, leads Ludwig away from such a clear goal at first glance. But will it be the road to a solution?