Mind-Bending Magic

Tilism Hoshruba, at the centre of these fables, is a self-contained and self-regulating magical realm created by wise conjurers as an enhancement of the natural world, and based upon particular notions of freedom and autonomy, of imagination and creativity. It is the realm of powerful sorcerers, supernatural creatures, enchantments and illusions, all contributing to the fantastical nature of the environment. The epic centres around the tales of those refuting magic who seek to conquer and destroy Hoshruba, one of whom is the honourable-trickster Amar ayyar. He and his consociates are directed by the authoritarian regime of the emperor Hansa, and also motivated by the opportunities and pleasures involved in exercising power and wanton destruction. But there are many others who are true to the values of insight and vision, of love and beauty, and who seek to protect the magical realm. They are led by Afrasiyab, the overlord of Hoshruba, who fears that this magical realm is destined to be conquered by tyrannical frauds, especially given its prospects are dependent upon a single tablet safeguarding all of its enchantment powers. Consequently, he must defend the underground realm of Zulmat where the tablet is hidden and perpetually re-energised so as to protect Hoshruba, even while motivating others to offer resistance in the visible world.