From the introduction: A little less than 500 years ago, the demon lord Rivenyk came to Dragon’s Delve, seeking a lair of suitable size and style--conveniently remote--while he secretly plotted and schemed in the mortal world. Rivenyk, called by some the Shadow Man, by others the Dark One, set his aims long ago on ascending to godhood. He desires spiritual power in the form of souls and worship. When the Duke Chordille built his keep above the ancient dungeon, he managed to tempt the Duchess into his service. But her sudden death a hundred years ago changed the demon lord’s plans. He disappeared, leaving his subordinate, Czarzem the Wicked, in charge. Over the years, many of the demons that dwelled here left, but some remain.