Publisher's Synopsis
Three hundred years after the known world was torn asunder by the warring of two great kingdoms, both Elden and Massifen races lie decimated in its wake. In their absence, unchecked sinister forces have claimed all but the last vestiges of human civilization. Over the centuries, many have tried to explore the wilds filled with lost cities, technologies, magics, fantastic creatures, and ancient nightmares. Few have returned. From across the safety of a vast gorge, a king calls for adventurers to help reclaim the world and force the darkest of spawn back into their holes. Ambitious and capable, Aven leaves his pleasant valley home seeking fortune beyond the gorge, where evil and death wait in abundance, but also reward. Will his sword arm carry him to a destiny of greatness? Alone? In company? Or will he fall like many much greater than he? Wild things and darkspawn activity have risen in recent decades, encroaching upon even the safest of havens. King Gershon understands the need to be proactive. It's time to clear the Witherwood and beyond, to secure a foothold for humans and allies should the older races ever return as stewards of the darkest most vile portals.
