NOVEL WEB Prologue: The Remen Empire
The Remen Empire is in peril.
Fear clenches the hearts of its citizens. Unseen horrors stalk its hills and woods. The shifting sands of its deserts swallow travelers whole. Worst of all, the Empire's numerous enemies close in on it from all sides.
From the South, hordes of pirates gather under the pirate queen. They raid the coast, seeking blood, gold, and death. Their leader may have yet greater ambitions.
From the North, nomads race forth from the grasslands above. Their swift steeds leave most horses in the dust. And their arrows leave most men in their graves.
From the West, the Zavarni Kingdom grows in power. Each of their mighty knights is the equal of ten men on foot, and their leader is nothing less than a military genius.
From the East, the Alfara Empire prepares for war. Its wealth and prestige are second only to the Remen Empire, and its elite slave soldiers make even the bravest men tremble in fear.
And from the Far East, an even greater threat rises, one that might consume the entire world.
Who would dare stand against such dangers?
Behold! The champions of the Empire!
The countless warriors of the themes!
The elite tagmata cavalry!
The vigilant akritai!
The mighty Varangian Guard!
Caesar Basil, the warrior prince!
And a member of a family burdened with dark magic...