A classic, early science fantasy: a thrilling historical adventure packed high drama and pure imaginative genius. A group of friends and scientists are on an expedition in the Himalayas when they stumble upon a series of strange and wonderful phenomena. They are attacked by an ancient army of Persians and rescued by the mysterious Norhala, a mesmeric and powerful woman; then they discover a living, metal city that re-animates and recombines at the will of Norhala. Soon they encounter the Metal Emperor and are drawn in the sinister plans of Norhala and her acolytes. Caught between the twin terrors of the Metal city and the ancient army the scientists are faced with the greatest challenge of their lives – to survive and escape.
