From the Publisher:
The one-volume edition of a Science Fiction classic

Throughout the Empire of Isher, the Weapon Shops stood. To the Empress Innelda they were an affront, a symbol of opposition to her absolute rule. For generations they had been impregnable, defying the ambitions of ruler upon ruler.

But now, behind her spoilt self-indulgence, her Imperial wilfulness, a steel determination had formed. She would destroy the Weapon Makers, smash for all time their balancing power. The weapon she would use was close to perfection.

She did not understand that its use would destroy the Empire. The Weapon Makers understood and prepared themselves. The aliens also understood. Watching and waiting far out beyond the galaxy, they understood - and they did not care.

Contents:

• The Weapon Makers
• The Weapon Shops of Isher