In a fantastical realm, a young swineherd named Manuel lives a simple life in Poictesme, unaware of his destined greatness. One day, a stranger informs him of a kidnapped princess, Gisèle, and a reward for her rescue. Encouraged by the stranger, Manuel embarks on an adventure, armed with a magical sword, Flamberge. Along the way, he meets Niafer, a clever boy who becomes his companion. Together, they face various mythical creatures and challenges, including serpents and illusions, as they ascend the mountain Vraidex to confront the magician Miramon Lluagor, who has abducted Gisèle. Upon reaching Miramon's palace, Manuel learns that the magician is not as fearsome as expected. Miramon reveals that he is tired of his marriage to Gisèle, who has become a nagging wife. Manuel, instead of killing Miramon, decides to return Gisèle to her father, the Count of Arnaye, and in doing so, he inadvertently wins her heart. However, Manuel's true affection lies with Niafer, who has proven to be a loyal friend. As Manuel's journey continues, he grapples with the weight of his geas, a promise to create a significant figure in the world, which leads him to model various images of men, including those of kings and queens. Despite his successes, he feels a deep sense of loss for Niafer, who has died, and he longs to bring her back to life. In his quest, Manuel encounters the enigmatic Queen Freydis, who offers him the means to resurrect Niafer. However, the price of such magic is steep, and Manuel must navigate the complexities of love, loss, and the consequences of his desires. Ultimately, he learns that true fulfillment comes not from power or glory but from genuine connections with others. The narrative weaves through themes of identity, the nature of love, and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations. Manuel's journey is marked by encounters with various characters, each representing different facets of humanity, and he ultimately discovers that the figure he seeks to create is not just a reflection of his ambitions but a testament to the relationships that shape his life.
By James Branch Cabell · First published 1920 · Genre: Fantasy, Philosophical Fiction, Satire · 44 chapters