The Gods have gone, the demons they birthed to create the world are dying. Four Guardians monitor and help the progress of the world, especially the God's most treasured creation, man. But demons can see the damage man is doing to the world they created and they are not pleased. They are unsure of the elevated status the gods gave mankind and as such torment them, as puny playthings, revelling in what little power they have left. Only the Guardians can protect mankind, yet they too are old and often forget their purpose, fighting amongst themselves. In a barbaric world one city stands as a beacon to all that is honourable and just. Created by a man who calls himself the Emperor, but this does not sit well with others who claim dominium other their own fiefdoms. The four bandit Kings are jealous of the Emperor's success and the trade advantage the city has. They plan to destroy the city and remove the Emperor. With eighty thousand soldiers they lay siege, but inside is Grant, a humble smithy trying to raise his adopted family, with his wife, Hope. Once apprentice to the legendary hero Fyrebane, Grant has powerful friends and for the first time in his life he is calling in favours owed. The soldiers within the walls are hardy, but massively outnumbered and though they need the help, Grant is aware that warriors with powers are considered demon possessed and are not tolerated. It's likely his powerful friends will be killed as soon as they reveal themselves, so he must use what few wiles he has to rid the soldiers of their prejudice. Grant is at the heart of the city, as the best blacksmith available, and a reasonable storyteller, he has the ear of most of the defenders. But Grants stories to humanise his demon gifted friends are hampered by his own honour and his refusal to lie. All he can do is call his friends and try to moderate the radical opinions of the prejudiced soldiers, so they will accept the much needed help. It won't be easy, the enemy too, have gifted warriors; mercenaries who have sold their souls many times over. To make matters worse, a prophecy foretells the breaching of the city walls and the demise of the Emperor with his best warriors around him.
