Out of the frozen seas in a northern bay rises a stark island of long-cold lava. Its steep cliffs make landing on it almost impossible, save at one hidden cove from which a narrow winding path leads upwards to a tower which seems to spring straight out of the surrounding stone. The path ends at a narrow gate surrounded by grim gargoyles, and above, narrow arrow slits hint at several stories of rooms. This is the home of Niktor Coldheart, the last surviving mage from the times before the rise of Nezrak, save Nezrak himself. He dwells here with a handful of apprentices, chosen by harsh tests, and a few servants who may not be human.