Book excerpt: An empress rules her fading empire with no heir to inherit the throne. An ancient malice lusts for her and fast approaches, with armies potent with demonic menace. A kings champion is sent with his unique band to aid in the defense against the twisted and foul crafts of necromantic warlocks. There is an inevitable and inescapable bonding of blood in the midst of a war for an empire. Unyielding sacrifice, forfeit, and submission to carnal impulse become the unexpected answers necessary to foil their archaic enemys revolting cravings. Arkenfall is the first book in the Conquest of Arkendore series.