The Empire of the Necromancers by Clark Ashton Smith
Summary
This episode features a full reading of Clark Ashton Smith’s story "The Empire of the Necromancers." Two outcast necromancers raise the dead to rule the desolate city of Yeth Lirium, enslaving the populace to their will. However, the last emperor and his ancient ancestor uncover a prophetic secret that allows them to slay the tyrants. The story concludes with the dead finding final release while the necromancers are cursed to eternal, tormenting existence.
Topics discussed
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Introduction and story prologue
Necromancers exiled to the desert of Sincor
Raising the first skeletons and gathering an army
Entering the abandoned city of Yeth Lirium
Coronation and rule over the dead empire
The necromancers' decadent and tyrannical reign
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The condition of the resurrected dead
Emperor Illyro awakens to rebellion
The necromancers' decline and Illyro's growing wrath
Illyro's secret observations of the tyrants
Consultation with Ancestor Hestion and the prophecy
Retrieving the sword, key, and tablets from the vault
Hestion slays the necromancers
The dead descend into the abyss for final release
Cursing the necromancers and the final escape
Epilogue: The fate of Matmore and Ser Dosma
Outro and support information
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