From the introduction: The year is T.A. 1864. The dwarves still hold Khazad-dum, and there yet remains might in the Havens of the High Elves. In this time the lines of Kings in Gondor and Arnor have not yet fallen, and the Dunedain are still strong though in decline. Especially in the North, where for centuries war has raged between the successors of Arnor and Angmar. Arnor, a shadow of its former self, clings to life in the North. Arvedui, son of Araphant, prophesied to be the Last-king, has just been born. The Witch-realm of Angmar is led by the Lord of the Nazgul, and composed of men of Rhudaur alongside orcs and other foul things deeper in the kingdom.