Mark and Ben travel deep into the Blue Temple's hidden horde in an attempt to recover whatever gold and Swords they can for the forces of Sir Andrew. Gods, demons and human traitors have other plans for the Swords and for the adventurers. In the game of the gods, no one’s survival is secure, even a god’s.

Sightblinder, one of the ancient Twelve Swords of Power, is held by Arnfinn, a country boy who knows nothing of its power to make the viewer see what he most wants--or fears. But Sightblinder must be used if Ben of Purkinje is to rescue Prince Mark from the hell in which he lies captive, prisoner of the horrifying, ageless Ancient One.

Long ago, the gods forged Twelve Swords of Power and threw them on the gameboard of life to watch men scramble. But they had forged too well: the Swords could kill the gods themselves. Now, the gods gone, the Swords are scattered across the land, some held by those of good heart, and some by evildoers. One is held by Arnfinn, a country boy who knows nothing of Sightblinder’s power: to make the viewer see that which he most desires—or most fears. Sightblinder must be used, if Ben of Purkinje is to rescue Prince Mark from the hell in which he lies captive, prisoner of the horrifying ageless Ancient One.

Saberhagen's original trilogy is now collected for the first time in one volume. The gods have given the world 12 Swords of Power so that they might be amused as the nations battle for their possession. But they didn't know that Vulcan gave the Swords the power to kill the gods themselves.

 Vilkata, the Dark King, returns from exile seeking revenge. His goal: the Tasavalta vault where Prince Mark has stored the remaining Swords. With possession of Shieldbreaker, Vilkata aims to destroy all other Swords and to rule the world and perhaps beyond. Only Mark’s young son Stephen is on hand to oppose the Dark King. He must get word to his father and grandfather. Swords clash and are destroyed. Only one Sword will survive.