Mandok accidentally releases Niko from a magical chrysalis. Instead of a fully-grown Champion of Carondolet, ghostly princess Lyra finds a ten year old boy. Lyra must lead NIko across the Bridge of Doom, but when the horrible Xerxes returns and attacks, Lyra has no choice but to put her faith in untested Niko.

While descending the Peaks of Peril, a protocol gaffe turns the normally proper Umlauti against our heroes. To earn his freedom, Niko must compete against Jackal in a challenging, gladiatorial-style race.