Upland Outlaws (A Handful of Men Book 2)

The old imperor has died, and his popular soldier grandson Shandie should have inherited the throne. Instead, an illusion sits on the opal throne—a creation of the mad dwarf Xinixo, who has spent years secretly ensorcelling sorcerers and turning them into loyal servants. With their combined power, Xinixo now rules the Impire and controls the world, planning to rule for centuries to come. Xinixo intends to destroy or enslave anyone who knows the truth or opposes him, including King Rap of Krasnegar, the rightful imperor Shandie, and all their supporters, friends, and families. With infinite magic at his command, capturing them should be simple. However, Rap and Shandie have other plans, even as their cause appears hopeless. Shandie flees his own kingdom to escape the army of sorcerers hunting him.