In 16th century Europe, Dismas is a relic hunter, one who hunts for "authentic" religious relics to sell to wealthy patrons. His best customers are Frederick the Wise of Saxony and the soon to be Cardinal Albrecht of Mainz. When Dismas' savings are lost by a crooked banker, Dismas and is friend, the artist Dürer create a forgery of the shroud that is sold to Albrecht. The forgery is discovered and Dismas is sent to Albrecht's dungeon to be tortured and killed but Frederick comes to his rescue. An agreement is made that Dismas will fulfill a penance for his crime by acquiring the "real" shroud from the Court of Chambery. The guards that accompany Dismas on the journey soon become involved in the misadventure involving battles, impersonations, and alchemy. This story has history, action, and humor. The "Last Supper" tableau complete with opium and hallucinogenic mushrooms is a high point. Fun once you get past the descriptions of torture.
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