In the Imperial Year 382, Emperor Varrok sat upon the Ruby Throne of Nerath, lording over most of the known world. The Dwarven slaves of Craggonen had been pacified. The Lycari of the North were defeated and scattered. The Dragonborn had retreated into their jungle strongholds. But there was one threat to the Empire that was not entirely contained. On the first day of the year, though, many wizards came forward and had their essence bound to the will of the Emperor. They were collected into small conclaves, brainwashed and molded into tools of the Empire. The Imperial Maegi were born.